A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast

Welcome! We have Mimi Goldsmith, a loyal podcast listener, and the principal owner of her referral-based business, Style by Mimi G, with us on the show today. Mimi's bio is a perfect example of the lessons that Fred Berns, and Nicole Heymer, of Curio Electro, have been teaching us. Although Mimi has only been in business for a few short years, she has created a bio that draws the reader's attention to the uniqueness of her work. In today's episode, she talks to us about her business, how she started it, and all the shows that influenced her and helped her get her business off the ground. Be sure to listen in today, to hear what Mimi has to share about her journey! Mimi Goldsmith, an interior decorator, and stylist is the principal owner of Style by Mimi G, which she opened in 2016. Mimi provides full-service interior decorating, e-design service, interior consultations, space planning, paint color consulting and home styling packages. She specializes in creating one-of-a-kind residential and commercial interiors for her local full-service clients. She also specializes in creating tranquil therapy offices for therapists across the world through her online services. Tune in now, to find out how Mimi got her business up and running! Show Highlights: Mimi describes her spontaneous decision to start her interior design business. The kind of research Mimi did when she started her business. Mimi didn't know how much to charge when she started. The magic of attending a LuAnn Live event. Mimi explains how she found this podcast. The groups that can be found via the podcast. How Mimi has been growing her business. Where Mimi found the necessary information to grow her business. Some lessons that Mimi learned from getting her clients' feedback. To work after business hours, or not? Mimi takes Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons off. Some very valuable lessons that Mimi has learned. Making use of My Doma's services. It's a great idea to create various design packages. Learning about vendor relationships. Buying from local vendors and learning from their expertise. It's essential to run your business with integrity. When you charge more, you can deliver more, and you create loyalty. Links: Mimi Goldsmith's website: Style by Mimi G Instagram: Style by Mimi G Facebook: Style by Mimi G What Would Lu Do? LuAnn Live Get the Goodies LuAnn Nigara and Friends Facebook Group Claire’s Facebook group: Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica’s Facebook group: What They Don’t Teach You in Design School Darla’s Facebook group: The Wingnut Social Media Lab Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Fred Berns #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393, and #460 Nicole Heymer (Curio Electro) #125, #317, and #466 Summer Tannhauser #292 Stefan Spencer Sandra Funk # 02 and #145 Groups to be found in the podcast: Claire Jefford (# 237, #325, #485) - Interior Design Business Strategies Veronica Solomon (#50) - What They Don't Teach You In Design School Darla Powel (#203, #330)l - Wingnut Social Leslie Carothers (#458) - The Design Wealth Group Cheryl Clendenon (#482) - Small Business, Think Big Email LuAnn at [email protected] if you think she could be your partner in making 2020 your amazing year!

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, we have Vita (Vitalia) Vygovska joining us on the show. As most of you know, Vita is LuAnn's Window Treatment Friday co-host. Ever since they launched the series last summer, they have been getting awesome feedback from designers and the window treatment community. Vita is an award-winning window treatment specialist with an impressive career path. In today's episode, you will learn all about her life, her career, her business, and her superpowers, so be sure to listen in, to get to know Vita a little better! Vita has an MBA. She is a CWFP (Certified Window Treatment Professional), an award-winning window treatment specialist, and an author. Her company, Vitalia Inc. Her company, Vitalia, Inc., provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services, exclusively for interior designers. Tune in today to find out more! Show Highlights: Vita talks about what her career path looked like before she started doing window treatments. How Vita came to open Vitalia Inc. Vita has a flair for finance. The corporate world can be brutal. Vita truly appreciates the skills she developed and the lessons she learned in the corporate world. Why Vita decided to leave her corporate career. Productivity is very important for Vita. The kind of confidence that corporate gave Vita. Learning the skill and finesse to stand her ground in the face of bullies. Looking back to learn from your past mistakes. Vita is like an extension of the team of the designers she works with. Entering the window treatment world with her eyes wide open. It took Vita two years to decide to leave the corporate world. Being very clear about your mission and vision. It's not necessary to go it alone because there's so much help and support available out there. What you will learn in Vita's eight-week Profit With Window Treatments Remember- your success starts with a decision. Bio: Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. A big thank you to Kirsch for sponsoring Window Treatment Fridays! Links: To learn more & register for Vita's course: Profit With Window Treatments To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To learn about Mydoma Studio

Welcome! Today, Laura Umansky, the principal of Laura U, (episode # 64) joins us once again on the show. Laura very clear about her vision for her firm and she is currently guiding her company to work towards growing from a five-million-dollar firm to a ten-million-dollar firm. In today's episode, Laura explains that, for her, this kind of growth requires a team of outside expert consultants, including an outside CFO, an EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) consultant, and her business advisor, in addition to her internal team. Laura is a true #smartlady, so be sure to listen in today, to hear this outstanding conversation. Laura is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, which is based in Houston, Texas. Her work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, which include Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Laura is also in Carl Dellator's brand new book, On Style: Inspiration and Advice from the New Generation of Interior Design, which was released in the fall of 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laura is ultra-focused and she is a major planner. Nothing happens by accident so you have to be prepared to be lucky. Laura talks about the intentional way that she and her plan for her business to be run. Work begets work. You need to put yourself out there, plan, and get involved with your community, for things to come back to you. Laura is ready to take her firm to the next level. She explains what this means for her. Structuring a business to scale it. Laura describes the kinds of decisions she has to make in her firm. For her first seven years in business, Laura worked without the assistance of any advisors. Laura started working with a business coach four or five years ago. Working with a virtual CFO. Laura has chosen to run her business on the EOS (Entrepreneur's Operating System) system. The EOS system can even be used for a family! Always doing what's best for the business is vital. How Laura manages to be both the visionary and the integrator for her firm. Laura talks about the processes that are involved in growing her firm from a five-million-dollar company to a ten-million-dollar company. Being a life-long-learners with a growth mindset is important for scaling a business. Laura talks about Carl Dellator's book, On Style, which has just come out. Bio: Laura Umansky is the Founder and Creative Director of Laura U Interior Design, a firm based in Houston, TX. Design has always been a part of her life. From a young age, Laura was deeply influenced by her environment, constantly finding ways to arrange her possessions with meaning and purpose. Seeing her father build her childhood home in Seguin, TX was the starting point of her career. “To see that he could do that, create our home with his own two hands…that lit something inside of me,” says Laura, who went on to study art at the University of Texas and subsequently obtain her Masters in Architecture from the University of Houston. In 2006, she founded Laura U Interior Design, bringing her unique vision for Classically Current interiors to life. “Interior design, the way we practice it, is a true luxury,” Laura says. “Every part is crafted by human hands. We take great care to find out what matters to our clients most, and then to articulate that through great design.” Every interior is an authentic reflection of our clients’ passions and values so that just like Laura, they are never without something they enjoy. Laura’s work has been featured by esteemed media outlets, including Elle Decor, House Beautiful, Modern Luxury Houston, Veranda, and Luxe Interiors. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Laura Umansky #64 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #432 LuAnn PTF #491 Books mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Links: Website: Laura U Interior Design Instagram: Laura U Interior Design Pinterest: Laura U Interior Design Facebook: Laura U Interior Design Article Trade Program Mydoma Studio Process Leads to Profits with Sara Lynn Brennan Profit with Window Treatments with Vita Vygovska What Would Lu Do Design Build for Profit with Jenny Slingerland

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, LuAnn will be talking to us about the kinds of problems and obstacles that stand in the way of designers with the running of their design firms. Although everyone is unique, there are still certain themes that play out, and problems that we all tend to share, as entrepreneurs. Listen in today, to learn what you can do to overcome the challenges that we, as designers, all face in our businesses. LuAnn has put a lot of thought into the best way to address these things in a precise way that would benefit each of you the most, as individuals. This has not been an easy task because designers are such a diverse group, with varying levels of experience. In today's episode, LuAnn will teach you how to grow your client base, increase your net profits, improve your business acumen and sharpen your sales skills. She will also talk about goal setting and great ways to expand your network. Be sure to tune in today, to find out how to grow your business in 2020. Show Highlights: You can turn your business around by listening to the podcast. It's your number one free resource! Systemizing every aspect of your business. About Sara Brennan's eight-week course, Process Leads to Profits. How to talk confidently with your clients about window treatments, with Vita's eight-week course. You need to know what you don't know. LuAnn's superpower is sales, which is all about listening. Creating client loyalty and lasting relationships. If you'd like to get inside of LuAnn's brain, whatwouldludo.com will be meeting once a month, live, via Zoom. Go to whatwouldludo.com to sign up. Jenny Slingerland's DesignBuildForProfit course will be starting in February 2020. A great opportunity for #seasoneddesigners. LuAnn Live is coming in November of 2020. Are you going to settle for normal in 2020 or will you strive to be exceptional? Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Darci Hether #220 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Kelsey Gross #167 Kimberley Kay #234 Christine Lin #470 Sara Brennan #463 Links: LuAnn Nigara Process Leads to Profits Profit With Window Treatments Design-Build For Profit Whatwouldludo LuAnn Nigara LuAnn Nigara

Welcome to the show! Today, Britany Simons joins us. Britany founded her full-service design firm, Britany Simon Design House, in 2010. Her work caught the attention of national media and this helped to launch Britany into the world of television and media. In today's episode, she talks to us about her experience of being in the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star. She shares the lessons she's learned from doing the show, and how she applies them today, to her design firm. Be sure to listen in today, to hear about Britany's extensive experience of doing television shows. For the last fifteen years, Britany's design career has covered everything from large-scale commercial renovations to budget-friendly builds, including entire home makeovers. With a degree in Business and Interior Design, Britany's professional career started with working for some of the top design firms in Arizona, where she specialized in kitchen and bath design, as well as the whole construction process, from conception to completion. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital, and print media outlets, Britany has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTC.com, a designer on Travel Channel's hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We're Moving In, on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Britany enjoys supporting and having the support of other designers. Britany discusses how she stumbled into doing TV design shows. Being on TV isn't as glamorous as it looks. Why you don't make good money on TV unless you get into the fifth season of a show. Some of the lessons Britany learned from being on a TV show. TV challenges are very stressful and you have to be self-sufficient and savvy with your resources because you're left to your own devices. You have to be highly organized to pull off a TV challenge. It's a very testing experience. It's very rewarding to complete a TV challenge. Being on TV is not what you would imagine because it's more exciting for the producers if the designer breaks down and falls apart. What Britany learned about herself, as a designer, from being on TV. Being on TV taught Britany to be more efficient and trust her gut. Learning to understand the process of how things are made, and what's involved with the different aspects of a renovation process. Britany gained a lot of confidence from being on TV. Being on TV certainly opened doors for Britany. You need to know what you want from being on TV before you start because it's a huge time commitment. You need to be mindful of where you're putting your energy. Television has been the marketing that Britany has used in her business. Bio: To Britany Simon, the foundation of good design is about the experience that it gives you. She believes in spaces that blend fashion with function and luxury with livability. With a focus on creating a space that is a reflection of who you are, and an emphasis on how it makes you feel. Her artistic nature, a penchant for the details, and eye for the unexpected have helped her create incredibly distinguished living spaces and striking commercial projects for her clients. Over the last fifteen years, Britany’s experience has spanned across a vast array of projects – from large-scale commercial renovations to whole home makeovers to budget-friendly builds. Although she has had a lifelong love affair with interior design and architecture, Britany received formal training through her bachelor’s degree in Business & Interior Design. She began her professional career working for some of the top design firms in Arizona where she worked on new residential homes, specializing in both kitchen and bath design, from conception to completion throughout the entire construction process. In 2010, she founded Britany Simon Design House – a full-service design firm. The signature style and unmatched execution of BSDH have garnered a notable client roster with projects all over the country. Additionally, her work has caught the attention of national media and helped launch Britany’s foray into the television and media world. Upon being selected on the seventh season of the hit HGTV design challenge series, Design Star, Britany discovered a new passion for television and video production. Her natural talent for design and on-camera presence earned her the accolade of “Fan Favorite” from her season. In addition to being a regular design contributor to television, digital and print media outlets, she has also been the host for the Holiday House series on HGTV.com, a designer on Travel Channel’s hit series, Hotel Impossible, co-host of We’re Moving In on the FYI Network, and a featured designer on Bravo Network's new design show, Best Room Wins airing May 2019. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: #420 Amanda Berlin #478 Amber Roy #297 Mikel Welch #338 Orlando Soria #127 Corey Da

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Brad Clinard, a certified financial planner from High Point, NC, joins us on the show today. Brad, like Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, (episodes #349 and #464) specializes in working with interior designers. He has a very real desire to help the people in our industry, and his approach to finances is different from any other financial planner. He knows that every designer needs to plan for life’s financial challenges, and for their retirement, so he helps them maximize their earnings over their lifetime. He refers to this as intentional planning for abundant living. Be sure to listen in today to find out what Brad does to help designers plan for a life and future that they deserve to have. Brad graduated from UNC Charlotte, Magna Cum Laude, majoring in Economics with a concentration in Psychology. He was the senior team captain of the tennis team and worked closely with the NCAA advocating for student-athletes. Brad has earned the designation CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Brad is married to Hope, a pastry chef. They attend Wesley Memorial Church in High Point, and they have a passion for missions and service, most recently supporting Youth with a Mission, Casey Cares Foundation and the Old North State Boy Scouts Board. In his “spare” time, Brad enjoys reading, movies, travel, time outdoors and eating great food. His adventures have included hiking the northern half of the Appalachian Trail and the Laugavegur in Iceland. Tune in now, for more. Show Highlights: Brad helps designers with their personal financial planning. We need to learn to understand how to use our money to empower us to live an abundant life. Brad’s parents were in the traditional wealth management industry and they focused on investing. Brad’s experience of growing up in High Point. Brad explains what financial design is all about. Starting with people’s values, rather than with their financial goals. The Designer’s Dozen are twelve challenges that designers face when working with traditional financial planners. Goals are future-focused and temporary, and values are present-focused and permanent. Understanding your values is the first point in getting to know yourself. Brad spends a lot of his time trying to understand how our psychology affects us. From a professional perspective, there are four types of money scripts that everybody falls into- money avoidance, money worship, money status or money vigilance. It can be very challenging for creative-minded designers to find professionals to give them advice and guidance. There are generally four different communication styles. Bridging the gap between the different styles of communication. Why Brad decided to focus on interior designers. How to know when you need the services of a financial planner. Brad gives you the Ten Keys to Financial Foundation. The plans that Brad will create for you. Follow your bliss and plan for an abundant life. A formula for having a less stressful experience of life. Brad has a three-stage process to help clients going through transitions in their lives. Other shows related to finances to go with this show: Peter Lang #349, #464 Kimberly Merlitti #361, #442 Ashley Micciche #468 Diane Gardner #54 Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Michele Williams # 137, #180, #395, and # 424 Taylor Spellman #106, #390, and #467 Links: Website: High Point Financial Design Quiz to learn your money script: High Point Financial Design

Welcome! We have Monica Wilcox, the principal of M Wilcox Design, joining us today. Monica is a #seasoneddesigner. She's dynamic, entertaining, and she's on the show to share some of her killer inspiration. She talks to us about coming to grips with her "business midlife crisis", her decision to be on TV, diversifying revenue streams, and setting the rules for yourself first, and then for your clients, to ensure your success as an interior design business owner. Monica is often called on for her advice. She is full of energy and her approach to business and life is truly authentic. You're really going to love her, so be sure to listen in, to hear what she has to share! M Wilcox Design is an award-winning design firm with an emphasis on collaboration. Monica's impeccable eye for design and her in-depth knowledge about project management really sets her apart from other design companies. She has very well-established systems, from the initial design phase all the way through to the final install, and every project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Tune in today, to find out more about Monica and the efficient way that she runs her design firm. Show Highlights: Monica did not start out in business with a foundation for success. She had to teach herself the business side of her business. Some of the core things that designers should be paying attention to when they start a business. Monica started out with a career in the military. There, she learned about determination and discipline. Monica is a believer in staying in her own lane and always hiring people who are good at what they do, to help her get to the top of her game. It's important to hire the top people. Monica explains what she looks for when hiring people. What caused Monica's business mid-life crisis, ten years ago. Finding a new sense of purpose. Transformation is powerful. Figuring out a deeper meaning to what you do. Monica shares her strategies for diversifying revenue streams. Getting on TV happened very easily for Monica. Preparation plus opportunity leads to success. Running with a structured system. There's so much to be learned from events and other designers. Monica explains her fee structure. All about Monica's Design Mecca classes and education. Bio: Interior Designer Monica Wilcox is an expert in delivering unique designs with functionality in mind. Her award-winning design firm creates gorgeous interiors that also offer livable-style with a California twist. With an emphasis on Collaboration, Monica is able to realize the vision of her clients and bring them to life. She has the unique ability to connect with her clients and radiates a tremendous passion for what she does which is contagious to everyone around her. Her impeccable eye for design combined with her in-depth knowledge of project management sets her apart from other interior designers. From initial designs to the final install, each project is executed with precision and exceptional quality. Monica is frequently called upon for advice for everything from interior design to business growth to lifestyle tips. She enjoys the art of living fully and completely and is happy to share that with others. With boundless energy, an honest and direct approach, and an infectious spirit, it’s possible that this creative visionary may someday be in every household in America. Monica Wilcox is the founder of Design Mecca, an online learning center that teaches interior designers how to start a successful business. Along with her colleague Nikki Chu, Monica teaches at the accredited online university which features a course broken up into 36 videos and 12 modules that students can work through at their own pace. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Tobi Fairley #419, #440 Nancy Ganzekaufer #389 Ann Rue #255 Sara Brennan #463 Janelle Photopoulos #363 Stacey Brown Randall #93 Links: Website: M Wilcox Design Design Mecca Nikki Chut LuAnn Live Sara Lynn Brennan Course LuAnn's Favorite Resources

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Vanessa Shepherd, the owner of She's Got Vision, on the show with us today. Vanessa is all about efficiency. She has won awards, she has been recognized in her community and she knows just how busy most creative business owners are. In today's episode, she talks to us about how hard it is for creative entrepreneurs to find the time to get everything done in their businesses, especially if they have a family to manage as well. She shares strategies for growing your design business through Pinterest and some really helpful tips for managing your time so that you can live a little too. She also explains what you need to do to really stand out from the crowd, so be sure to tune in, to find out more. Vanessa graduated from NAIT with honors for her degree in Business Administration. She is a content marketing professional and she helps business owners to be seen, increase the traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships. Her specialty is social media marketing, and she loves to use Pinterest as a platform for visibility. Listen in today, to benefit from Vanessa's wisdom and experience. Show Highlights: Vanessa loves to be as efficient as possible. There's a big update coming for Pinterest. Vanessa explains what a pin title is, on Pinterest. Pinterest wants to make titles more purposeful. Later is a great scheduling tool. Pinterest is an important search engine. Some strategies for using Pinterest to drive potential clients to your website. Allowing someone else to help you have the time to do what you do best. Video is big everywhere on social media right now. Pinterest can be used as a good cross-promotion tactic. Some tips to capture people's attention in the first three to fifteen seconds of a video. Good quality photos are a must on social media. The process of pinning. Find content that can educate, inspire, or entertain your audience. Showcasing your work in multiple ways to drive more traffic to your website. Being consistent with your pins is very important. Vanessa has a Pinterest audit that you can download for free on her website. Go to She's Got Vision How Vanessa helps people improve their strategies for social media. Bio: Vanessa Shepherd is a content marketing professional at She's Got Vision, helping business owners to get visible, drive traffic to their websites, and build lasting relationships with their audiences. Vanessa specializes in social media marketing, and her favorite platform for visibility is Pinterest! She graduated with honors from NAIT with a degree in Business Administration and from the University of Alberta with a master's in Communications and Technology. When she's not creating strategies, running ads or pinning her heart out, you can find Vanessa traveling and gardening with her husband and their two Airedale Terriers. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza #385 Summer Tannhauser #292 Allison Fannin #223 Kate Ahl # 331 Links: Website: primary: She's Got Vision Blog course microsite: learn.shesgotvision.com Blog: She's Got Vision Blog LuAnn Live Article: welldesigned.article.com Kirsch: kirsch.com Instagram: She's Got Vision Facebook: She's Got Vision Pinterest: She's Got Vision Free Pinterest audit checklist: She's Got Vision

Welcome! Today, we have Christina Bruce, the principal of Christina Bruce Interiors in Vero Beach, Florida, with us on the show. Christina was one of the VIP attendees at the LuAnn Live, It's About the Conversation event, earlier this year. LuAnn asked each VIP to let her know, in the months following the event, what they have done and achieved based on what they learned, and the people they met there. So, Christina messaged LuAnn recently, with a long list of the positive things she identified in herself and her business, from the event. In today's episode, she shares the serious questions she had been asking herself about her business, before attending LuAnn Live. She then goes on to describe the things she put into action and the remarkable 180 degrees turn around that she created in her business, as a result of attending the event. Listen in, to hear about the incredible way that Christine transformed her business. Christina started her company in Savannah, in 2009. She then completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Christina received an award for excellence for the work she did on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce during this time, and she was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. The love of her hometown, Vero Beach, drew her back there in 2012. Christina has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach, and by helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas, New York, and internationally. Tune in today, to learn about the lessons that Christina has learned and the actions she's taken to transform her business. Show highlights: Christina explains why she decided to go to the LuAnn Live event. Attending LuAnn live pulled Christina out of the negative head-space that she had been in before attending the event. LuAnn Live was like a designer's support group for Christine. Christina talks about the significant conversation she had with Taylor Spellman. Learning to look at her motivation, rather than her goals. Parenting always takes priority. Cat and Christine keep on learning together. Some of the actions that Christine has taken. Christine's experience is in high-end residential design. Becoming successful within the demographics of where you live. What Christine learned from Dala al Fuwaires. There will always be times when the things we do don't work. You have to risk failure to succeed. There are some things you should never fake. Christina describes the Christina Bruce Collection, for David Francis Furniture. Talking about partnerships. Podcast green is a wonderful color! Bio: Christina Bruce graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). The Interior Design program at SCAD has been consistently ranked as the number one program in the nation. It is here that Christina not only formed a strong foundation of design principles, but also a true passion for interior design. She formed her own company in Savannah in 2009 and completed several residential and commercial projects in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. During this time, she received an award for excellence for her work on a medical center from the Indian River County Chamber of Commerce. She was also invited to be a guest designer on ABC’s Extreme Make-Over: Home Edition where she helped complete the design of the dining room and master bedroom of the home being featured. Savannah’s charm enriched her experience, but the love of her hometown of Vero Beach drew her family home in 2012. In her time in Vero Beach, she has worked with some of the finest architects and builders which has helped to shape her corporate philosophy and relationship with clients. She has had the opportunity to further her experience and influence by not only working with some of the most established communities in Vero Beach but also helping to complete residential and commercial projects in Texas and New York, as well as internationally. She looks forward to many years of successful relationships and projects with the clients and communities with which she is fortunate to work. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Vanessa DeLeon # 18 Dala al Fuwaires # 392 Taylor Spellman #467, 106 Shauna Lynn Simon #76, 84, 102 Cat French #376 Nancy Ganzekaufer- Niche is Rich #15 Nicole Heymer #125, 317, 466 Kae Whitaker #114, 259, 274 Michele Williams #180, 395 Carolyn Flannery #453 Links: LuAnn Live LuAnn Nigara Book Power Talk Friday Link to IG post announcing color collection PodGreen named for me David Francis Furniture Clem Schaub Architect Vero Beach Florida Christina Bruce Interiors

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Claire Jefford joins us on the show once again today! Claire is an interior decorator, business coach, leader of the designer Facebook group Interior Design Business Strategies, a vlogger, and author of a chapter called Managing Client Expectations in LuAnn's second book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power talk Friday Experts, Volume 1. In today's episode, Claire takes us through her initial process. She shares her wealth of information about the best practices for handling all aspects of consultations with clients. Listen in today to learn how to set the tone for success right from the outset. Claire started her award-winning decorating firm in 2011, and in 2017, she started a second business as a business coach. She is passionate about having organized processes, marketing, and creating videos. She was voted #3 Top Influencer in 2018, and she runs an active Facebook group called Interior Design Business Strategies, with more than 3000 design professionals from around the world. Tune in now for more! Show highlights: Being upfront about the way that you work. Managing your clients' expectations, educating your clients, and communicating effectively. Claire talks about her templated email system. Setting the tone right from the start. Claire always asks for payment upfront for consultations. Keeping clear logs of everything. 3-D design is the way to go! Claire talks about what she brings with her to consultations. Helping people as much as possible in two hours. Clients like structure. You have to let your clients know what you do. Little things can go a long way. Confidence is key! Claire has some fabulous packages available. Claire explains what WidWil is all about. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Maria Killam #58 Fred Berns #174 John and Theresa Dorlini (Circle Design Studio) #380 Claire was previously in episodes #237 and #325 Links: Website - https://clairejefford.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairejefforddesigns/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessstrategies/ Blog post Claire mentioned in the show: https://clairejefford.com/3d-renderings-for-interior-designers/ The Initial Phone Call: 5 Must-Ask Questions - https://clairejefford.com/initial-phone-call/ Kirsch: kirsch.com Article: welldesigned.article.com LuAnn Live: luannlive.com LuAnn's Favorite Resources: luannnigara.com/resources

Welcome! Today, we have Laurence Carr, the CEO of Laurence Carr Design, with us on the show. Although Laurence opened her design firm just a short eighteen months ago, she is already running it with the clarity of a seasoned CEO. She has a very well-structured business plan and her goals are right in front of her. In today's episode, she explains how she managed to get her business up and running so quickly and she also shares with us her well-thought-out business plan. Laurence is truly an impressive businesswoman so be sure to listen in today, to learn about the clear and intentional way she runs her business. Laurence is helping to shape our cultural dialogue through her work, her speaking engagements, and her blog, "Beyond Aesthetics". Her focus is on combining sustainability with quality, and she is a GREEN Leaders Accredited Professional, and a Member of the Sustainable Furnishing Council. She is is a leading voice in the field of Holistic Interior Design and she's been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, Business of Home, Domino, Apartment Therapy, Sotheby’s Home, House Tipster and Style Matters. Laurence won the BUILD awards from Homes and Gardens UK in 2019, and she was nominated for the ASID National Awards 2019 for “Design for Humanity”. In March of this year, she was invited to be one of the 30 speakers of the Circular City Week in New York. And this summer, Laurence Carr Design successfully unveiled "The Restorative Room", in Southampton New York, for the Hampton Designers Showhouse 2019. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Laurence talks about the advisory board that she recruited to help with business strategy. It helps to get advice from people outside of your industry. Everything that Laurence does is done with clear intention. Laurence wanted to build a business with multiple revenue streams. Thinking about the impact of stress on people's lives. Considering not only how things look, but also how they feel, when making choices. Working with Leslie and Sam, of Savour Partnership. About the immense value that Laurence found in creating her e-boutique. How Laurence grew her email list. Working with freelance designers. Laurence talks about her interview process. The systems and processes she uses in making selections for her e-boutique. Earning money on the side, from affiliate marketing. It all comes down to the systems you use. It's very important to keep your goals in front of you. Bio: Born in France and now living in NYC, Laurence Carr has an inherent appreciation for art and design—she is a natural aesthete. Before launching her interior design practice, Laurence was a professional ballet dancer, singer, stage director, and fashion event manager. Today, she is recognized for her application of wellbeing principles and ancient techniques in high-end residential interior design. Laurence believes luxury interiors don’t have to be sterile and soulless. Instead, her projects encourage mindful living and create harmony, whilst attaining a level of sophistication that develops from layering modern art, furniture, antiques, and accents. Having lived, worked and traveled in Europe, Asia, Australia, and the US, Laurence’s design aesthetic is influenced by her love of different cultures and deep appreciation of art. She brings an international approach to each project—whether its sifting through antique galleries in Paris or sourcing hand-woven rugs from the villages in Nepal, Laurence’s knowledge and network allows her to find and assemble unique items for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer #466, #317, #125 Andrew Joseph #39 Dennis Scully #459 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Links: Website: Laurence Carr Facebook: Laurence Carr Design Instagram: Laurence Carr Design YouTube: Laurence Carr

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Wendy Cohen today. Wendy is the founder and CEO of a suite of Powerhouse Companies comprising of PowerHouse Advisors, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART, a luxury industry education and networking leadership community, and PowerHouse Recruiting, which is a division of the consultancy, PowerHouse Advisors. This expert group of companies is committed to serving the best people in the luxury industry by teaching and speaking to them about luxury, and educating them about new luxury technologies. Wendy herself is a powerhouse lady, and in today's episode, she talks to us about building a company culture, creating a complete customer experience, and what it takes to get ahead in business. She also discusses the Luxury Home Conference that is coming up in Chicago, in February, where she has invited LuAnn to be the keynote speaker. Listen in today, to find out what this dynamic and special lady has to share! The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006. It is recognized most for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the fields of design, build, and development, across the US and in Canada. PowerHouse SMART was also formed in 2006. It was intended to power-up the very best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building, to lead to business collaborations, new business development, referrals, knowledge sharing, and cutting-edge education. Then, in 2015, PowerHouse Recruiting was created as a division of PowerHouse Advisors, to continue with the exceptional recruiting and placement guidance that was established under the consultancy umbrella. Tune in today, to learn what it takes to win in the arena of luxury design, build. Show Highlights: Wendy started her career as a realtor. Wendy was part of a four-person team in a building company that grew the company from having ten employees to eventually having 120 people working there. Creating a culture in her company. Great success for builders doesn't come overnight but it is possible. Growing the design, build concept. Teaching her sales team about the complete experience was the thing differentiated from any other builder that a consumer might be going to, in 1989. You don't brand yourself. Your audience brands you. Treating sub-contractors, tradespeople, and suppliers with respect, as if they are part of your company. In 1995-1996, Professional Builder Magazine named Wendy's company one of the best eight companies to work for in the nation. Being selected by Custom Builder Magazine as Custom Builder of the Year. The satisfying way that Wendy's vision for the company became contagious. Consulting with other companies to teach and advise them about systems, processes, and how to replicate Wendy's success. For ten or eleven years, Wendy's main focus was on business development. Consulting about recruiting, and helping everybody grow, is where Wendy finds herself today. Wendy views the placements that she makes within other companies as a reflection of her reputation. Wendy talks about PowerHouse Smart. This is how she gives back to her community. Wendy is all about sharing and giving. Every month, PowerHouse Smarts had one big event, called the Builder Architect Hard-Hat Tour. PowerHouse Smart is always looking to grow like-minded individuals. This is why they host a Luxury Conference every year. The next PowerHouse Smart Luxury Home Conference is being held on February 5th, 2020, in Chicago. LuAnn has been invited to be the keynote speaker. Wendy explains what will be happening at the upcoming Luxury Home conference. Bio: Wendy Cohen CEO PowerHouse Companies PowerHouse Advisors, LLC PowerHouse SMART® PowerHouse Recruiting, LLC Wendy Cohen is the CEO and Founder of the PowerHouse Group of Companies comprised of PowerHouse Advisors™, a consulting firm, PowerHouse SMART®, a luxury industry education & networking leadership community and PowerHouse Recruiting, a division of the consultancy PowerHouse Advisors™ LLC. The family of PowerHouse Companies was formed in 2006 where it is most notably recognized for successfully guiding hundreds of luxury industry brands and firms in the design, build and development arena across the nation and in Canada. PowerHouse Advisors’ profound impact is working with owners and senior managers in refining business development efforts, implementing process improvement platforms, developing operating systems and procedures, properly managing and executing manpower and creating strategic growth plans. PowerHouse SMART® also formed in 2006 was intended to power-up the best of the best leaders in the luxury market by creating a platform for elite relationship building leading to business collaborations, new business development, referrals (give and get), knowledge sharing and cutting-edge education. From the onset, the goal was to bring all the talents needed to create an ultimate luxury project and

Welcome! Today we have Cheryl Clendenon, the CEO of the Florida-based design firm, In Detail Interiors, with us on the show. Cheryl is one of our industry’s boldest, smartest, and funniest ladies, and she’s always willing to generously share her business expertise and advice with those who would like to learn from her. In today’s episode, she offers some very valuable advice about crafting conversations and steering them to where you want them to go. Be sure to listen in today, to find out what she has to share. Cheryl is a master of sales. She's a truly outstanding professional who has been in business for more than 19 years. She operates a full-service design firm, a retail location, and a business Facebook group and she understands she has to make her money intentionally, rather than with luck or by accident. Tune in today, to get some priceless tips from Cheryl. Show Highlights: The copy on Cheryl’s website is awesome! You need to know your audience. Carefully considering what your website says about you. Learning to guide your clients down your path. There are many people are too timid to reveal their personalities on their website. This is very limiting. Cheryl has an incredible Facebook group, called Small Business Think Big. How to best position your design firm. It all starts with the way you present yourself on your website. Learning to not be afraid to talk about money. Projecting your income. People tend to be a little resistant to the idea of minimum expenditure at first. The nuances of how to get what you want. Sales is a win-win game. Positioning yourself in the very best way possible. Giving added value is a formula for success. Cheryl explains what her training focuses on. Cheryl looks at how much money she’s going to make on every job she does. For Cheryl, the words have to be right. Cheryl helps you think big about your small business. Cheryl’s fees are based on a combination of design fees + a contracted minimum expenditure on products Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Chris Ramey #345 Links: LuAnn Nigara Resources Vita’s course link: Profit With Window Treatments Sara’s course link: Process Leads to Profits My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Well Designed Article In Detail Interiors Cheryl’s FB Group: Small Business Think Big Cheryl's Instagram: In Detail Interiors Cheryl's Pinterest: In Detail Interiors LuAnn’s FB Group

Welcome to Window Treatment Friday! Today’s show is brought to you by Kirsch.com, our newest sponsor. Last week, we learned from Matt Johnson, the National Sales Manager, and Sarah Frost, the Brand Manager, for Kirsch Drapery Hardware, how the Kirsch team is on a mission to breathe new life into their company, which is more than a hundred years old. And today, we have some big news! If you would like to learn more about window treatments so that you can incorporate them into your business as an added revenue stream, Vita and LuAnn have the answer for you! Vita will be teaching an eight-week course, called Window Treatments and Profits for Designers, starting in January. Listen in, to find out more. Vita and LuAnn know just how profitable window treatments are. They want to share their knowledge and experience with you so that you can also develop the skills and confidence you need to make a profit from window treatments. The Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course will meet via Zoom so this means that you can be anywhere in the world to do it. You either can join Vita live, in real-time, or you can watch the replay at your convenience, and still get all the magic. The course will be run in conjunction with a private Facebook group, for support and extra time to answer questions. We will be opening the course in the next week or two, so go to Luann Nigara Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments, and leave us your email address so that you can be first in line when the registration opens. In today’s episode, we will be talking about the different types and categories of window treatments. There’s a myriad of different custom window treatments available out there, so Vita’s way of simplifying things is to break everything down into two main categories- hard and soft window treatments. Vita and LuAnn will then give us an overview of the different types of window treatments in each category, listing and explaining the various types of treatments and the pros and cons of each one. Be sure to tune in today, to hear what they have to share. Show Highlights: Vita gives her personal take on hard window treatments overall, as a category. Generally, hard treatments consist of blinds, shades, and shutters. The main purpose of hard treatments is functionality, which is usually light control, privacy, or glare control. Vita explains what soft treatments are. Although soft treatments are generally there to add to the aesthetic value of a room, they can still be functional. The pros and cons of blinds. The rebirth of roller shades. Comfortex will supply cellular shades in any color. Talking about shutters. Woven wood shades are very popular with designers. The different types of soft treatments in the category. LuAnn explains what she likes about drapery panels. Roman shades are very versatile. Some useful resources for you. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Kirsch #479 Links: LuAnn Nigara Vitalia Inc Kirsch Kravet Inc My Doma Studio: A Well Designed Business Exciting Windows WCAA Window Fashion IWCE Vision Window Works To sign up for the Window Treatments and Profits for Designers course, go to Profit With Window Treatments or Profit With Window Treatments For a free PDF download of this episode, go to LuAnn Nigara.

Welcome! Today, Julia Marcum, half of the dynamic duo of Chris Loves Julia, joins us on the show. Julia started blogging more ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done. In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. This particular component is vital to your success as a business owner, so be sure to listen in today, to hear what Julia has to share. Chris and Julia are a fresh, honest, and creative DIY duo, blogging about the daily feats and failures of renovation. They offer their loyal readers a mix of large-scale renovations, quick DIY projects, budget-friendly ways to revamp their spaces, and items to splurge on, as well as a few personal stories to remind their readers that they’re real people, too. They were named as one of Better Homes & Gardens’ Top 10 DIY bloggers. Tune in today, for more. Show Highlights: Julia explains how she and Chris came to realize that they should combine their talents and work on the blog together, on a full-time basis. Creating the right kind of content to post on Instagram. Knowing what you want to be known for. What you’ll find on their blog, and what you’ll find in their Instagram stories. There are zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence. Creating consistent, quality content based around your niche. Consistency and quality content is key to getting lots of Instagram followers. Julia doesn’t have a photography background and yet she took all her own photos until three months ago. Figuring out photography. Educating your photographer about what you want. Being intentional about the look that you’re creating in your photos. Julia explains why people are following her. The difference between just posting a picture, and creating content. Choosing where to best utilize your energy. The best way to connect with your Instagram Stories audience. Julia talks about the two courses she teaches, Working With Brands and Growing Your Influence. Links: Website: Chris Loves Julia Instagram: Chris Loves Julia Propertee: Chris Loves Julia Facebook: Chris Loves Julia Pinterest: Chris Loves Julia Youtube: Chris Loves Julia Good Influencer Good Influencer on Instagram Link Previous Shows Mentioned: Shea McGee #236, #270 Amber Lewis #169, #184 Nicole Heymer #125, #466 Jamie Lieberman #454 Fred Berns #22, #174 People who inspire Julia: Jessica Helgerson Interior Design Instagram: Josh young Design House Don’t forget when you place your next order on any Kravet fabric, wallpaper, or trim, to use the code AWDB10 at checkout, to get 10% off any one purchase. Go to Kravet to place your order.

Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday! Today, we're introducing you to Kirsch, our newest sponsor for A Well-Designed Business. Kirsch has been an industry leader in drapery hardware for more than one hundred years, and they also have a custom window coverings program. For today's episode, we have Matt Johnson and Sarah Frost with us to talk to us about the latest innovations that Kirsch is bringing to the design and window treatment community, so tune in, to find out more! Kirsch was started in 1907 when Charles Kirsch invented the first curtain rod and telescoping rod. His goal was to connect with people around his fantastic products. Soon after inventing his innovative curtain rods, Charles published his first style book, to guide purchasers of drapery hanging specialties. The first Kirsch patented lace curtain rod was created in 1923, and then Charles designed the deluxe cut-to-measure drapery, which was one of the most important developments in drapery hardware history. For the next fifty years, the Kirsch brand continued to incorporate many more innovative advancements that would change our industry forever. Matt Johnson is the National Sales Manager of Kirsch Drapery Hardware. He leads a team of experienced sales professionals representing over 100 years of the Kirsch brand. Over his 22 years in the window coverings industry, Matt has sales experience in multiple channels of business including National Retailers, Independent Retailers, Builders, Contract and Commercial Accounts and Distributors. His rich background and understanding of the window coverings industry have allowed him to apply his passion for working with business owners and designers to develop sales and marketing strategies to improve sales and service. Sarah Frost is the Brand Manager for Kirsch Drapery Hardware. She oversees a talented team that creates conceptual designs and implementation of the marketing initiatives for the drapery hardware launches and projects. Sarah has experience in hard window coverings as well as drapery hardware from her previous positions as a product manager and in sales. Listen in today to find out what Matt and Sarah have to share about our newest sponsor, the Kirsch brand. Show Highlights: Matt gives us a synopsis of Kirsch, and it's long and rich history in the window coverings industry Sarah has lots of fresh, new ideas for the Kirsch brand. Breathing new life into the brand through engaging with the trade. There are currently so many new and improved drapery hardware options available. Kirsch provides great resources to educate the design community about their complicated product. Sarah discusses how she and her team are revising and revamping the way their products are produced and presented. It all starts with the numbers. Keeping abreast of the latest trends. Creating a digital price list has made all the difference. The new styles and colors that Kirsch is coming out with are very different from what people are used to seeing in their Buckingham collection. The texture of natural wood products is really beautiful. The craftsmanship of their new finishes is really impressive. Matt explains the features of their new and improved motorized drapery tracks. Sarah discusses all the aspects of the business that have been redone. Their brochures have been redone for the designer to the client. What the resource library is all about. You will be able to see Kirsch's new products at the IWCE Expo in Charlotte in March 2020. Links: Website: Kirsch Instagram: Kirsch Twitter: Kirsch Facebook: Kirsch

Welcome to the show! Today, Amber Roy, the principal of the recently launched design firm, Amber Dawn Interiors joins us. Amber's approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, and between trends and timelessness. Her goal is to get to know her clients and understand what makes their hearts sing so that she can turn their homes into a reflection of who they truly are. In today's episode, Amber shares an 'aha' moment she experienced while listening to LuAnn being interviewed on Amber de la Garza's podcast, The Productivity Specialist. She talks to us about her first design project and the ingenious way she launched herself as an interior designer at the end of it. She also shares the intentional things she did just before, and in the weeks immediately after opening her business, to make herself known to potential clients, build relationships both within and outside of the design industry, and get her new business off the ground. Listen in today, to find out about Amber and how she got her successful new business up and running. Amber, who is also a realtor, has been passionate about interior design since she was a very young girl. As she grew, her interest in interior design also continued to grow and she eventually realized that she needed to put her passion to work. And so Amber Dawn Interiors was born. Amber has always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture. She feels that bringing in old pieces gives a place soul, and that warmth and balance are created by mixing old with new, so she loves to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. It is very important to Amber to create carefully and thoughtfully curated spaces, and she will go the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give her clients the unique look that they really want. Be sure to tune in today, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amber explains what it was that moved her to email LuAnn. Amber talks about her first project, to showcase her abilities as a designer. Reaching out to potential collaborators, including Ethan Allen and Coastal Furniture. Staging an open house in collaboration with a realtor. The great benefits of collaboration. Realtor's are good to partner with because they are an influential group of people. Networking is Amber's current strategy for building relationships. What it takes to create a successful relationship-building event. Discovering her mission and values. An awesome opportunity that has come Amber's way. You need to put yourself out there to become known. Bio: My passion for interior design began when I was a very young girl. I remember drawing floorplans for my "dream house" on the lined pages of my spiral-bound notebook. I remember staring out the window of the school bus, scoping out the houses that were down and out, imagining how beautiful they'd be if I could just fix them up. My interest grew as I did, and through the years I began to realize that I needed to put my passion to work. So, it is with immense pleasure and gratitude that I present Amber Dawn Interiors. My approach to design is to find a balance between old and new, between trends and timelessness. It is so important to me to create a space that is carefully and thoughtfully curated- going the extra mile to find the finishes and pieces that will give you the look you want, but that won't be the same as your neighbor. My goal is to really get to know my clients: their lifestyle, their likes, and dislikes, the way they use their space, the things that make them happy, what makes their souls sing! I want your home to be a reflection of you. I want you to turn every corner and see something that makes you smile. I love to use heirloom pieces and incorporate antique and salvaged building materials. Having always been drawn to all things old, including houses and architecture, I feel that bringing in old pieces gives a space soul, and mixing old with new creates balance and warmth. When I'm not designing spaces, you will find me with my two boys, Turner and Pierson, their Dad, my husband Tim, and my other family and friends. I may be singing some karaoke. I may be gardening. I may be traveling. I may be enjoying the sunshine or a glass of wine. Probably both. I may very well be admiring an old truck or a historic building. If you see me, say hello :) Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amber De La Garza #385 and #436 Stephen Karlisch #369 Dala Al-Fuwaires #392 Nancy Ganzekaupher #15, #159, #256, #377, and #389 Carolyn Flannery #453 Jana Platina Phipps (The Trim Queen) #293 Darla Powell (Wingnut Social Media) #203 Rebecca Richardson #330 Links: Website: Amber Dawn Interior Instagram: @amber.dawn.interiors Facebook: Amber Dawn Interiors

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Laurel Palmer with us today. Laurel is the New England Sales Territory Manager for Comfortex, one of the premier sponsors for the LuAnn Live event last March. Laurel is a pro when it comes to the art of selling. She has many years of experience, having worked for furniture manufacturers, commercial office furniture dealerships, building materials suppliers, and ultimately, a window treatment company, where she first sold window treatments to retail consumers before landing on the wholesale side of the trade. Laurel grew up in Northern California and now resides happily in the Greater Boston area. She is committed to helping her window treatment dealers make more money, so tune in today, to hear what she has to say. Comfortex was founded in 1986 and soon became known as a provider of innovative cellular shades. The company grew, and their product offering expanded to include roller shades, sheer shades, wood, and faux wood blinds, as well as cellular shades in every shape and configuration. Then, in 2000, Comfortex was acquired by Hunter Douglas. Comfortex is known for constantly innovating and improving. An example of their innovation is Color Lux, which marries an unlimited color choice with green production processes and game-changing materials. Comfortex blinds and shades have won more than 100 Window Covering Manufacturing Association awards and they are distributed currently in more than 50 countries. Most of their products are manufactured in upstate New York. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: Laurel talks about the incredible amount of color choices that are available with Comfortex's Color Lux. How Color Lux came about. You can now get solar screens in any of Color Lux's 800 colors! As a designer, using Color Lux will give you the freedom to confidently offer your clients the exact color of their choice or to match any color that they already have. Beautiful relationships are formed between interior designers and many of the window treatment dealers that Laurel works with. The benefits of working with a window treatment pro. Window treatments are a viable way for designers to add a terrific layer of profitability to their revenue stream. The importance of creating partnerships. Laurel has a unique approach to being a representative of Comfortex. Laurel shares her sales philosophy and her sales process. If you ask the right questions and listen carefully people will tell you exactly what they need. People don't always buy what you think they're going to buy, so you owe it to your customers to show them all of the available options. LuAnn shares some pointers from the seven-step sales-course that she teaches. Confidence is a key component to your success. Why it's important to sell value, not price. LuAnn explains what makes a good salesperson. An expert is someone who has made every mistake in their field. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: WTF episode numbers #462 and #471 Links: Comfortex Window Fashions IWCE Vision To get in touch with Comfortex, send an email to [email protected] and put LuAnn Nigara in the subject line. Link to RSVP for November 5th at Exclusive Flooring Concepts Or Luann Nigara: Live Event

Welcome to the show! Today, we're featuring #risingdesigner Amanda Hamilton. Amanda's bold and unorthodox approach to design and business has made her one of the most sought-after designers in Western Canada. She is driven, focused, and has truly achieved a lot during her fifteen years of experience in the design industry. LuAnn is certain that the secret sauce to Amanda's success is that she is a first businesswoman and then an interior designer. In today's episode, Amanda talks to us about what goes into running a medium-sized business and creating extra revenue streams. Be sure to listen in to find out what she has to share. Amanda has her Bachelor’s degree in Applied Interior Design from Mount Royal University, she's earned her status as a Licensed Interior Designer through the National Council for Design Qualifications, and she is a Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design Accredited Professional. Amanda is dedicated to the career development of young women, so she mentors through the Harry G. Schaefer Mentorship Program. She has also mentored for the Women in Leadership and the National Council of Interior Design Education, and she is the current chair for the World of Choices committee for Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta, which focuses on career mentoring for young women. Amanda was the recipient of the 2012 Mount Royal University Horizon Award, which recognizes the outstanding achievements of alumni early in their careers. In 2016, Amanda launched a Travel Scholarship through her alma mater to promote design exploration. She was named as one of the 20 Most Compelling Calgarians by the Calgary Herald for 2018, n 2017, she was awarded the Top 40 under 40 by the Calgary Edition of Avenue Magazine and she received the Silver Stevie Award for Female Entrepreneur of Canada. And to top it all, her design studio was awarded Best in Calgary in the Interior Design category and received the Ones to Watch award by Western Living Magazine. Tune in, to find out more! Show Highlights: Amanda talks to us about the time when she decided to build her firm up and take on employees. Amanda started her business in the middle of the recession. She has doubled her numbers since that year. Some of the lessons Amanda has learned about hiring. Developing awareness around the energetic effect you're having on others. Stress doesn't go away. You learn to deal with it. The challenge of creating an ideal team. Finding the right person for the right position. What Palette Archives is all about. The logistics behind Palette Archives. The goal of Palette Archives is to be like Amazon Prime. Tapping into a growing market. Pricing Palette Archives to make it accessible to even more people. Amanda explains how much went into the development of Palette Archives. Links: Amanda’s website Instagram Facebook Twitter Email Palette Archives Article Trade Program

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are delighted to introduce you to Desi Creswell today. Desi and LuAnn speak a lot of the same language! They both know that it takes more than just talent for you to be in a position to share your gift with the world because, as a designer, you need your business to be profitable. This could mean having to improve your systems, processes, or even your education to inspire you and enhance your natural aptitude. Also, the way we think often prevents us from sharing our superpowers because of our mindset problems and limiting beliefs get in the way. So we are very happy to be talking to Desi today because she is skilled and able to deal with many of these issues with the coaching she does. In today's episode, she talks about how to create more time in your day by learning to identify the emotions you are trying to avoid. She explains how to eliminate feelings of being overwhelmed, clarifies how to take action, and she discusses emotions and how they hold us back. Desi also shares a fantastic exercise to help you create more time. Be sure to tune in to learn how to use this valuable tool. Desi is a certified life and business coach who specializes in interior designers. She teaches her clients to become more profitable, productive, and confident while reducing the stress and overwhelming feelings that often comes with running your own business. Before turning thirty, Desi has already built two successful companies. She offers a unique blend of entrepreneurial expertise and effective mindset teachings. Desi is also an award-winning interior designer and her work has been featured both in print and online publications. She has been a guest presenter and panelist at events such as Midwest Home Design Week. Listen in today, to find out more. Show Highlights: You can start creating more time by using a coaching tool called 'The Model' to become aware of your thinking and your feelings. Desi explains why it is important to understand what neutral facts are. Indulgent emotions; although they can sometimes feel justified or even productive, tend to keep people stuck because they don't produce any results. You can create efficiency by simply changing the way you think. Setting a schedule that creates results and saves time. Desi describes how to create thoughts and feelings that will serve you. How a coach can help you to create new thoughts and beliefs. Desi discusses the way she works with her clients. Buffering is one of the ways that we tend to waste a lot of time. Desi explains what it is, how we use it to distract ourselves, and how we can overcome the urge to use it. Creating intentional models that serve you. Take a moment to think about the emotions that you usually try to avoid during the day. Learning to move out of the emotion and to see and accept the neutral facts. Desi shares an exercise to help you to marry your mindset with a strategy. (Start, Stop, Keep.) Start, stop, keep will give you some perspective for looking at what you want to start doing, in terms of planning for future projects. Desi has a free guide on her website that will be helpful for you to take this work a little further and implement it in your life. You can schedule a free mini-session with Desi. Go to her website to take advantage of this offer. Links: Instagram: Desi Creswell Website: Desi Creswell Link to download the free guide: Time And Profit Previous show mentioned in this episode: Amber De La Garza: #385 -Buffering: The activities you do when avoid doing what you know you should be doing. (hand up) I learned that my constant checking of emails is my buffering technique.

Welcome! Today we have Bria Hammel, the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou, and the Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co., with us on the show. Bria leads a team of sixteen highly-skilled women who run thirty to forty significant projects each year. The company has two design teams working on the details and execution of all their projects. In today's episode, Bria explains the particulars of the way she runs her firm, she talks to us about how she learned to operate a well-managed company, and she shares the keys to scaling your interior design firm. Listen in, to find out more about Bria and the way she runs her highly-organized and very successful business. Bria's work has been featured in national publications like Traditional Home, Magnolia Journal, Good Housekeeping, HGTV Magazine, My Domain, Style Me Pretty, and also in many other local shelter regional magazines. She was awarded the 'Fresh Faces of Design' award from HGTV in 2015 and 2018, and she's been nominated for an international design award. Bria was also selected as a 2018 Style Spotter by High Point Market Authority. Tune in now, find out what to do to make your design firm a whole lot better. Show Highlights: Bria has almost 100 000 followers on Instagram. Bria talks about the specific roles played within her team of sixteen talented women. Pricing things accurately is very important for interior designers. It's very important to keep your clients regularly updated about their projects. Bria explains why she loves listening to podcasts. Businesses go stale when they stop growing because they think they know how to do everything perfectly. You can gain a lot from working for somebody else before starting your own design firm. Bria cut her teeth at Ethan Allen and she even became their Design Manager because they believed in her. Bria explains the phases of her design process. How Bria's teams are run. The way that Bria's trust in her team engenders her clients' trust in her firm. Bria talks about the Friday reports that she gets from her team each week. Asana helps Bria and her team to coordinate their projects and Slack helps them to communicate in a very organized way. Organization is key to scaling your business. Bria has added a retail component to her business with Brooke & Lou and their exclusively designed, Life Friendly products. Bria explains what the EOS system is about and how it works. Bio: Bria Hammel PRINCIPAL DESIGNER & CEO Bria is the Principal Designer and CEO of Bria Hammel Interiors, the CEO of Brooke & Lou and Co-Creator of Hammel House & Co. She leads a fresh, talented team of women who are dedicated to designing beautiful, inviting homes for clients. For Bria, every project is about creating a home filled with surprising, thoughtful spaces that lead to unexpected moments. She has an incredible eye for detail and has a passion for designing spaces that tell her clients’ stories. Bria’s work has been featured in national publications such as Traditional Home, HGTV Magazine, Lonny Magazine, Style Me Pretty, as well as many other local shelter magazines. She received the “Fresh Faces of Design” award in 2015 and 2018 from HGTV, has been nominated for an International Design Award and was selected as a 2018 Style Spotter for High Point Market Authority. Bria was intrigued by design at a young age and grew up visiting wallpaper stores and furniture showrooms, as her mother was an “in-the-closet” designer. Bria has been fortunate enough to travel the world, which has given her a unique perspective on how people live, as well as a deep understanding of how different spaces can come together in incredible ways. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236, #270 Tools that Bria's team uses: Asana Slack Links: Bria Hammel Interiors Facebook: Bria Hammel Interiors Instagram: Bria Hammel Interiors If you are interested in using Bria's Life Friendly products, be sure to set up your trade account today. Go to Brooke And Lou Link for LuAnn's book LuAnn Nigara Books recommended for learning about the EOS System: Traction by Gino Wickman Get A Grip by Mike Paton and Gino Wickman

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's episode is sponsored by The FabricShield, a company that cleans, protects, and performs emergency spot-cleaning for the times when accidents happen. The FabricShield is owned and operated by Rene and Scott Schleicher. Rene and Scott are passionate about their business and they know how much money your clients are spending on investing in furniture, carpets, area rugs, window treatments, and wall coverings. They truly understand the advantage you have, as a designer, when you're able to offer your clients a service to help them protect their investment for many years to come. Listen in today, to find out what Rene and Scott have to share about their unique product and the way that it adds value to any design business. Rene and Scott are a remarkably well-matched couple, both in life and in business. Rene has a background in retail furniture sales and Scott's background is in growing national business networks. This places them in a unique position to excel at both sides of their business. Their first-hand understanding of the value and pride that designers place in their clients and their homes, coupled with the astute way they run their business, makes everything happen very smoothly. This means that you can rely on them completely, and refer or hire them without any reservation. Tune in today to learn all about The FabricShield and what it does for fabrics. Show Highlights: The FabricShield makes regular fabrics perform like performance fabrics. Dealing with accidents and offering protection for any soft surface. About their complimentary spot cleaning service. You can first test a sample of your fabric, just to put your mind at ease. The water test will immediately show how well this product performs. This product never changes the feel of a fabric. The FabricShield is completely non-toxic and it dries extremely quickly, leaving no smell at all. Applying the product is a straightforward process and the technicians are very conscientious about cleaning up before they leave. Anything natural almost always comes out. Protecting your fabrics for your peace of mind. They schedule their day to leave themselves windows of opportunity to react to your stains. How interior designers can work with The FabricShield. The way that designers are rewarded for their referrals. Talking about pricing. They provide complimentary spot cleaning for 18 months. The business is now a franchise. Scott explains what makes their franchise unique. The quality of the product is the key to their business. Why Rene and Scott are uniquely positioned to lead their company. Starting a start-up business within a Fortune 500 company. About The FabricShield: The FabricShield is an in-home application to be applied to upholstery, area rugs, carpets, to any other soft surface you'd like to protect. It dries within an hour and there is no aerosol mist or haze. The FabricShield won't alter the texture or the look, feel, or color of the furnishings and its protection will keep your furnishings looking like new for longer. The FabricShield company provides complimentary spot cleaning care for 18 months once a client's furnishings have been protected with The FabricShield. Bios: Scott Schleicher Co-Founder Scott Schleicher is a co-owner of The FabricShield. He is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Annapolis, MD with a B.S. degree in Mathematics. Upon graduation, he served for 5 years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. He has spent the majority of his professional career in the industrial gas industry working for Air Products, Inc. in Allentown, PA. While at Air Products, he had the opportunity to start-up their MicroBulk business serving as the National Business Manager. The MicroBulk business served over 30 locations in the United States and grew rapidly under Scott’s leadership with revenues of $200K in Year 1 and growing to revenues of over $20MM in Year 10 when Scott departed the company. He then joined Airgas, Inc. and served as the President of Airgas National Carbonation (ANC). Under Scott’s leadership, ANC grew from $48MM in revenue and a 17% profit margin to $75MM in revenue and a 24% profit margin in 3 years. Scott departed Airgas in 2018 to join Rene Schleicher in establishing FabricSeal, LLC. the predecessor to The FabricShield. Rene Schleicher Co-Founder Rene Schleicher is a co-owner of FabricSeal, LLC. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, MD with a B.A. degree in Government and Politics. She received her Paralegal degree from the University of San Diego, CA. Rene has been an entrepreneur since graduating from college and has spent the last 20 years serving the legal and design trade industries. Rene has worked as a paralegal in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Rene formed her first start-up company as an interior decorator while living in Allentown PA. Her business grew and she eventually opened a boutique fu

Welcome to the show! We have John McClain joining us today. John is the owner and Principal Designer for John McClain Design, and he is also an ASID Associate. For John, a successful design project involves combining the client’s needs and wishes with his own natural instinct. John McClean Design has offices in Florida and Los Angeles, and in today's episode, John talks to us about his superpower, which is organizing the systems and tools that he and his team utilize to manage their projects from two locations in two different time zones. Tune in now, to learn how to set your firm up with a strong foundation. John McClain is an accomplished interior designer who has turned his lifetime passion for interior design into an opportunity to do the same for others. Shortly after launching his career, John appeared on HGTV, which allowed his personality and design perspective to become visible to a larger audience. He then joined a prestigious interior design firm/furniture design company in Los Angeles, CA, which eventually led to him starting his own home furnishings company, John McClain Home. John McClain Design is a well-crafted blend of John's past design experience, education, and innovative-forward thinking. His projects have received numerous awards and have appeared in many publications including Traditional Home and Elle Décor. John now also shares his passion for interior design through speaking engagements, television appearances, articles, and events. Listen in today, to find out what he has to share. Show Highlights: John has a degree in business management. He has always been an entrepreneur with a keen interest in learning systems and ways to make businesses run more efficiently. Systems are always evolving and changing, so you have to keep learning and growing. John talks about the structure of his business and the roles that his employees play. Synergy is really important to John, so he is always aware of what's going on with all of his firm's projects. John explains how he works and how he organizes his projects within his company. Transparency is very important, for both employees and clients. John has started using MyDoma Studio to coordinate his projects and it's made things so much easier! John explains what he likes about MyDoma Studio. Some of the tools that John and his team use to communicate and to coordinate their projects. The way that John manages his business finances. Learning the ins and outs of QuickBooks. Keeping a keen eye on your finances is key to running a successful business. John explains how he keeps his finger on the pulse of his business. Using a questionnaire to get information about potential new clients. John talks about his involvement in the consultation process. Coping with a three-hour time difference. Knowing when you have to step in as the leader. Keeping his team inclusive. Links: John McClain Home John McClain Design Instagram: @johnmcclainhome Facebook: John McClain Home Go to A Well Designed Business to sign up for your trial with MyDoma Studio. On November 1st, 2019, LuAnn will be speaking at the Portland Interior Design Society Chapter's event, the Elevate Conference. Then, the following week, on November 9th, 2019, she will be speaking at the thirtieth-anniversary celebration of the NKBA Portland Chapter. Both the IDS of Portland, Oregon, and the NKBA of Portland, Maine, are inviting you, the design professional, to join us! You don't have to be a member of IDS or NKBA to attend. Go to LuAnn's website, Luann Nigara, and click on the 'Attend A Live Event' tab to find the RSVP and registration info for these events. (And for any other event that LuAnn will be attending over the next few months.)

Welcome to another episode of our Window Treatment Friday series with LuAnn and Vita. In this series, we're talking about window treatment services and we're sharing some viable business models with you. We explain how you can incorporate a window treatment business into your interior design business and we help you find the business model that's the best fit for you. Today, we're continuing our conversation from the last episode in this series (# 462) where we outlined the framework for the 'Do It Yourself' model. In today's episode, we will be covering the 'Done For You' model, where the interior designer partners with a window treatment specialist. In this model, the interior designer is the primary creator of the vision and the plan, and takes care of the more fun aspects of the service, while all the 'behind the scenes' aspects are taken care of by the window treatment specialist. Listen in, to find out more. Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita and LuAnn have been getting some outstanding feedback about this series, so tune in today, to learn from them how to make window treatments a profitable center of revenue for your interior design firm. Show Highlights: Vita gives a recap of what she and LuAnn covered in the previous episode of this series, #462. With the 'Done For You' model, the window treatment expert expects you to call them in right at the beginning of a new project. Devising the strategy for window treatments is the first step. The designer remains the leader and the window treatment expert helps the designer understand how to find the best solutions. The importance of honing your communication skills. The way that the window treatment experts can help you, the designer. Coming up with the design is usually the most fun step for designers. An expert is someone who has made every possible mistake in their field. The role of the designer and the role of the window treatment expert. Window treatment experts use systems to keep the designers in the loop. Dealing with delays. Creating efficiency with systems. Vitalia Inc. uses Air Table, a very robust web-based project-management system that outlines every step of the project. What it means to take responsibility. The value you get from partnering with a window treatment expert. This model is a win-win for the designer and the client. Vita shares the questions that you need to ask, to find the best window treatment model that's the best fit. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Peter Lang #349 and #464 Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at [email protected] To learn more about working with Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To get the PDF with the Goodies from today's episode: Luann Nigara If you join LuAnn's mailing list, you can access any information that we have uploaded relating to all the previous episodes of the podcast via this link.

Welcome! Today, Christine Lin, the founder of San Francisco-based Form + Field, joins us on the show. Christine sent LuAnn an email a while back, explaining how well her brand new interior design firm is doing due to all the strategies and tactics she's learned from listening to the podcast. Christine really has a lot going on for herself. She's a multi-disciplinary creative with degrees in architecture, engineering, and business, from MIT and UC Berkeley. After spending a successful decade in the tech industry, she has now returned to her true passion of interior design. Christine's rigorous training in corporate and startup environments gave her expert communication, management, and execution skills. She brings these skills, together with her well-honed eye for seeking out new art, design, and architecture, to her firm and all her design projects. Listen in today, to find out what Christine has learned, and how she successfully applies these lessons to her business. Form + Field creates original interiors that honor the identity, history, and surroundings of their clients. With an emphasis on art, architecture, and eclectic modernism, they cultivate every project as a partnership. Form + Field has been widely recognized by publications such as Domino, Rue, California Homes, and Hospitality Design. Tune in now, to hear Christine's story. Show Highlights: Christine shares her takeaways from her experience of working part-time for another designer, and from listening to the podcast. Running your business as if it's already a big business. Christine didn't want to be putting out fires in her business. The salary that Christine paid herself last year. When she first started out, Christine paid herself a salary of $5000 per month. Establishing your company's revenue goals. Doing whatever it takes to reach your goal. Some of the key things that Christine did to get clients, when she started out on her own in business. Setting professional boundaries and treating friends as formal clients. A contract protects both the designer and the client. Boundaries create freedom. Christine shares some of the growing pains from her first year in business. Systemizing your hiring process will save you money in the long run. Cleaning up your accounting system is very important for your business. A hard lesson that Christine learned. Talking about estimates and fees. Learning to keep every aspect of your business within your control. Links: Website: Form And Field Instagram: Form And Field Pinterest: Form And Field Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Judith Taylor #340 Eileen Hahn #363 At 10 am on October 10th, 2019, LuAnn will be at the Stanford Waterside Design District, in Connecticut for her free, full-day event. This event is co-sponsored by the Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. Please join us there! You can find the RSVP on the EVENTS page of LuAnn's website. LuAnn Nigara

Welcome! We're bringing you this extra little episode of A Well-Designed Business today because, over the past months, many of you have told LuAnn that you don't know what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. And a number of you have expressed just how much you need it, after finding out what it's all about. In light of this, LuAnn decided to take some time to explain exactly what the Power Talk Friday Tour is. Tune in now, to find out! Over the nearly forty years that LuAnn has been in business, she's learned a lot about creating a successful business from the deeper conversations she's had with other business owners. Almost every other owner of a thriving business that she's spoken to has had some or other sort of business coaching throughout their career. This is why LuAnn believes in business coaches and business coaching. And why she believes in business mentors and mentees, and business besties. In today's episode, she defines each of these roles, and she explains how all of this ties into the Power Talk Friday Tour. Listen in today, to find out what the Power Talk Friday Tour is, and how it happened. Show highlights: How the Power Talk Friday Tour happened. One-on-one business coaching is at the top of the food chain but not everyone can afford it. Sometimes you need someone to help you implement the new things you've learned about. Perhaps you just need someone to talk to about a new idea you've had for your business. LuAnn has selected the coaches that she respects and admires for the Tours, and she rotates them for each Tour. Why the PTF Tour is enough of an investment to make you think. Most of the experts typically charge between $400 and $700 per hour for one-on-one coaching. The conversations will be geared to hit the points that are relevant to everyone in the room. There will be small, round-table discussions with the experts after lunch. If the group is really small, you might even get a one-on-one. This event is small for a very good reason. Every single tour is different. The day always ends with a celebration dinner! Links: To find the information about the next tour that's coming up, go to www.powertalkfriday.com. If you'd like to find out if the Power Talk Friday Tour is right for you at this time, email LuAnn at [email protected], put Power Talk Friday Tour in the subject line, leave your phone number, and LuAnn will call you within 24 hours. Thank you to MyDoma Studio and Revel Woods for committing to sponsor every Power Talk Friday Tour!

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Ashley Micciche, the CEO of True North Retirement Advisors, on the show with us today, and we're talking exit strategies. This is a very important topic because you will need an exit strategy when you get to the point in your business career where you begin thinking about whether your business is viable to sell, why you should sell it, how to sell it, and what it's worth. Everything you do in your business is about building it and setting yourself up for success. So, even if you've only been in business for a short while, you have no intention of selling in the foreseeable future, and you feel that your retirement is still a long way away, you will still benefit from this podcast. Listen in to find out more. Ashley started her career as a financial advisor in 2007, after graduating, magna cum laude, with a bachelor of science degree in business finance, from Portland State University. True North Retirement Advisors is an independent financial advisory firm, located just outside of Portland Oregon, that manages two-hundred-and-thirty-million dollars in client assets. In today's episode, Ashley explains to us how she specializes in designing, building, and implementing business exit plans to help business owners secure their final and most important business decision- their exit strategy. Ashley's mission is to transition 300 small business owners successfully into retirement in ten years, so tune in today, to find out what she has to share about planning smartly for your future. Show Highlights: Most businesses revolve around their owners, and that impacts negatively on the value of the business. Creating a thriving, systemized, well-oiled machine. Thinking about how your business could go on after you, or be sold when you are ready. Preparing for your exit as if you are going to do it. Where to start with thinking about exiting. What drives the value of your business? Ashley dispells a myth about valuing a business. Some things you should be aware of that decrease the value of a business. Ashley has a valuation tool and checklist on her website that you can use to value your business in just a few minutes. Some things to safeguard against. Getting unstuck and exiting your business with three universal steps. It's very important to get an expert to guide you through the process of selling or buying a business. Go to Value My Business to value your business. Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Meadowbank Team: #302 Do Not Let Us Design For You: #346 Eileen Hahn: #363 Links: True North RA Well Designed Article Free Checklist & Unlimited Access To Our Business Valuation Tool Alex: One Minute Retirement Tip: Subscribe on iTunes Blog: True North Retirement Advisors Website: rue North Retirement Advisors Facebook: rue North Retirement Advisors LinkedIn: Ashley Micciche LuAnn will be at the IDS Elevate Conference in Portland Oregon on Friday 1st November. RSVP link: ID Sport Land

Welcome to the show! We have another one of those rare shows today, where our guest bravely pulls back the curtain and talks to us openly about what it's like to be an entrepreneur, and to go through very tough times where everything is on the line. Taylor Spellman, the CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, previously appeared on the podcast in episode #106. She's back with us today to talk about an eye-opening lesson she recently learned about running a business. Taylor wanted to share this lesson with you so that you might not have to make the same mistake in your business. Tune in now, to learn something very important from Taylor. Taylor is a #smart lady, and she's really funny too! Her firm specializes in a concierge level of project management. At any one time in her business, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction, as well as all the press and the Bravo TV shows that she has. Tune in today, to hear about the grave challenge that she recently faced and overcame. Show Highlights: Taylor explains what happened when LuAnn called to ask her to do LuAnn Live. Taylor talks about the things that caused the very difficult time that her business went through. Why you have to be very clear about what you want to do with your money. The importance of being prepared. Learning to trust the right people. Why you need to have a finger on all your accounting systems. There's a fine line between negligence and malicious intent, but the results are often the same. How Taylor's ability to value the privilege of having a home has shaped her work. Taylor learned the value of money the hard way. Taylor tells a cautionary tale about the hazards of hiring friends. Learning to run her business from her brain, rather than her heart. Getting rid of all her staff and hiring new people. The importance of tracking and checking everything in your business. Protecting your business, and your staff, with accountability. Keeping up with your goals as they unfold. Realizing who you are and moving forward. Bio: As CEO and Creative Director of Taylor Spellman New York, Taylor’s client-centric focus is bold and eclectic, showcasing the personality of the inhabitants of the spaces she creates. At any given moment, Taylor has upwards of fifty million dollars of real estate interior architecture and design under her direction. The firm specializes in a concierge level of project management with TSNY’s team of designers, contractors, and architects directing each phase of production from conception to completion at the top commercial, residential and new development properties throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn. Taylor has been featured in The Real Deal, Architectural Digest, The New York Times, E! News, Elle Décor and People Magazine in addition to hosting her own design show on BRAVO. You can meet Taylor, in person, at High Point, with LuAnn, Sandra Funk, and Lori Paranjape, on Sunday, October 20th, 2019, at Suria, at 2 pm. This panel, titled Confidence Sells, is co-sponsored by MyDoma Studio and Suria. Links: Website: Taylor Spellman Facebook: Taylor Spellman Instagram: Taylor Spellman Would you like to meet Luann in Connecticut on the 10th of October, 2019? This outstanding full-day event is co-sponsored by The Stanford Waterside Design District and Aspire Design and Home. The first 100 RSVPs that also show up will receive a free copy of LuAnn's second book. To RSVP, go to Luann Nigara, and look for the event in the Events and Coaching tab. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Elissa Grayer #451 Wendy Glaister #386

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We have Nicole Heymer, the owner and founder of Curio Electro, back with us today. Nicole is our website designer and developer, she's our branding guru, and she's also a co-author and the book-cover designer for LuAnn's new book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts, Volume One. Nicole's chapter in the book is about the questions you need to be asking yourself and your clients, to discover, establish, and make very clear what your brand is. In today's episode, she will be taking the concept of defining your brand a step further by explaining how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business and giving you an exercise to help you to get this done. Tune in now, to find out what Nicole has to teach you about visual branding, brand voice, and messaging. Curio Electro was founded in 2011. It is the go-to for businesses seeking smart and practical digital branding that gets results. They are experts in curating your brand voice and finding the aspects of your business that will draw in new clients by creating compelling websites and thinking through what happens after everything goes live. The collaboration with Nicole and her team is outstanding, so even after the website has been built, she and her team continue to provide marketing materials and social media graphics. We truly respect Nicole for her expertise and her business acumen. Listen in today, to learn how to express the uniqueness of your brand in every aspect of your business. Show Highlights: What you need to know about what shapes people's beliefs about your brand. Knowing what it takes to make people believe something about a brand. Creating moments for people, and telling stories. The little things that are very important to deliver to your clients. Using every aspect of your business to tell people exactly what they can expect from you. Your message has to align with what you're doing. People subconsciously judge you on your visual branding. Demonstrating to the consumer how you stand out from the rest. How you make more money when you have your brand clearly defined. Nicole shares some ways to tell your brand story, to make it real for people. Some ways to delight and surprise people with the technology you use in your business. Talk about your charitable contributions. They say a lot about your brand. Video is a really powerful way to tell your story. How to organize and prioritize your systems and your marketing. The different courses that Nicole offers to assist designers. Bio: Nicole Heymer is the founder of Curio Electro, a boutique creative agency specializing in intuitive branding, compelling design, and actionable plans. Since 2011, Curio Electro has worked within a multitude of industries and with a wide variety of clients at every stage in their development, from nationally known interior design firms to local craft breweries. Nicole's clear, practical take on creating a memorable brand has been featured in print, on podcasts, and as the framework for branding workshops. She is an active ASID Industry Partner and has served as the Editor of NJ ASID's Blueprint Magazine. Links: Website: Curio Electro Instagram: Curio Electro LinkedIn: Nicole Heymer Facebook: Curio Electro Nicole's Course for Interior Designers: Branding Discovery Get the Goodies from Today's Episode For Claire Jefford's courses Nicole will be at the Power Talk Friday Tour High Point Nicole's Previous Episodes: #125 & #317 Previous Episodes Mentioned in the Show: Pulp Design Studio #176 Savour Partnership #209 and #458 Claire Jefford #237 and #325 Kae Whitaker #26, #66, #114, #259, #274

Welcome to today's show, sponsored by Kravet Inc. We have the privilege today of having the Dallas-based interior designer, Jan Showers, join us on the show. As a successful entrepreneur, Jan understands the value of collaboration, which is a very important element of her business. In today's episode, she discusses her multi-faceted career, and she talks to us about the full lifestyle collection that she's created for Kravet, what it includes, and how her collaboration with Kravet came to be. Tune in now, to find out more! Jan's career spans three decades, and during this time, she has received many of the highest honors awarded to design professionals. Her magazine credits include Architectural Digest, Elle Décor, Veranda, House Beautiful, InStyle, Traditional Home, British Home and Garden, Harper’s Bazaar, and Luxe. For the last five years, Architectural Digest has added Jan Showers and Associates to the AD100, their preeminent directory to the world of design. Jan has also written two books, Glamorous Rooms and the follow-up to that, called Glamorous Retreats. She's currently working on her third book, which is due to be released in the fall of 2020. Jan is truly one amazing lady! Listen in today, to hear about her insights and her reflections on her career. Show Highlights: Working hard, getting published, and having great photographs are all key to being noticed for the Architectural Digest's AD100. Where the inspiration for her book came from. The most challenging part of her business. Twenty years ago, Jan couldn't find what she wanted in the trade showrooms so she began creating a collection of her own, the Jan Showers Collection. Being prepared to get lucky! To do what Jan has done, you'd need to have strong systems in place, and an amazing team behind you. Jan talks about her collaboration with Kravet. Jan's impressive portfolio supplied most of the photographs for her book. Jan's third book, Glamorous Living, is coming out in September of next year. How Jan's mother influenced her life and career. High-level clients expect and deserve perfection. Jan discusses her history with Kravet. It's a good idea to start out working for someone else or to have a mentor. Jan shares her key to success. Bio: Jan Showers is a Dallas based interior designer and has been designing for clients for over 25 years. Her magazine credits alone place her in the highest echelon of designers. Aside from Jan’s interior design business, her career spans three different businesses. Jan has a to-the-trade custom furniture line, Jan Showers Collection, which is sold in eight showrooms across the U.S. Showers also has an antique showroom in the Dallas Design District, where she sells vintage items, as well as her new collection, 1308 Collection. Showers’ partnerships include a full lifestyle collection with Kravet Couture, a furniture collection with Kravet Furniture, which debuted at High Point 2019, a hand-knotted rug series for Moattar, Inc., a lighting series with L.A. based designer Joe Cariati and a cowhide rug collection for Kyle Bunting. Jan has written two books: Glamorous Rooms and her follow-up, Glamorous Retreats, both published by Abrams. She is working on writing a third book with Abrams to be released in fall 2020. Links: Website: Jan Showers Jan Showers & Kravet Inc Instagram: Jan Showers Facebook: Jan Showers Associates Twitter: Jan Showers Glamorous Rooms Glamorous Retreats Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Joe Cariati #197 Nate Berkus #433 Candice Olson #74 LuAnn and Jan will be at the Kravet showroom in the Boston Design Center on Wednesday, Oct 2nd, 2019. Please join them there!

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! We are very happy to have Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, on the show with us today. Peter is one of the co-authors of LuAnn's book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. He wrote chapter two of the book, called 'Find The Best Accountant For Your Firm' because, as a creative, it can be really hard to lock down the financial side of your business. Today, Peter, who previously appeared in episode #349 of the podcast, talks to us about how he teaches designers to understand everything they really need to know about their finances. Listen in, to find out more. Peter is The Designer CPA and he genuinely loves working exclusively with design professionals just like you. He has a really strong desire to help creatives, and his goal is to help you to become a confident partner with him around the financial side of your business. Peter is based in Rhode Island but he works remotely with designers all over the USA. Tune in now, to find out what he has to share. Show Highlights: Peter and LuAnn are going to be doing Power Talk Friday together, at High Point, in October of this year. What Peter learned from the LuAnn Live event, last March. Having a great team does not mean that you should stop paying attention to your business. How Peter started teaching people about the right way to be looking at their finances. Why Peter won't work with certain people. Peter chooses to work with people who care. Peter talks about the different classes he teaches. The design industry is not straightforward when it comes down to finances. Peter understands this and he teaches you how to run your books accordingly. You want everyone on your team to be on the same page. Peter explains what his second course is all about, and how it was created specifically for the design industry. How these courses will prevent you from becoming marginalized by your CPA. Peter teaches you what you need to know about taxes. About the next course that Peter will be doing. About LuAnn's Power Talk Friday Tours. Bio: Peter Lang is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He is the founder of The Designer CPA, a CPA firm that works exclusively with business owners in the design industry. He has worked in public accounting since graduating from Providence College in 2002. After working for several larger size firms in Boston and Rhode Island, Peter realized his true passion was to start a firm that specifically focused on designers. Peter currently resides in Rhode Island with his wife Carmen and their identical twin boys, William and Matthew. He enjoys running and golfing outside of work. Links: Website: The Designer CPA Power Talk Friday Tour Peter's Courses: Classes For Designers A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Mydoma Studio: A Well Designed Business Instagram: The Designer CPA Facebook: The Designer CPA Twitter: The Designer CPA Previous Shows Mentioned: Peter Lang #349

Welcome! Today, Sara Lynn Brennan joins us on the show. Sara is an entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors. Eighteen months ago, Sara contacted LuAnn, telling her that she wanted to go to High Point Market, but she wasn't sure what to do or where to go. So LuAnn arranged to meet her there, and Sara spent two days with LuAnn and Sara Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, going from event to event, hanging out, talking, and allowing Sara to get to know some significant and influential people in the design industry. Since then, Sara has become the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina, who specializes in Transitional Designs, where she and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable, and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Listen in today, to find out what Sara has to share. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. In today's episode, Sara talks to us about the extra layer that she's added to her design business, and she explains how she's put the lessons that she's learned from the guests on the podcast into action. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: How MyDoma Studio inspired Sara to create packages. Sara shares a mind-blowing story about selling packages. Why you really need to go and look at Sara's website. Sara describes her really smooth process. Getting clear about the steps that are involved in any process. Coming up with a flat-rate fee. The great reward of instant gratification. Sara describes her consultation process. The way that Sara personalizes her packages. The discovery call is a very important part of the process. Creating an approachable package to reach more people. Coming up with a detailed DIY package. A package called 'DIY with an option to buy'. Sara talks about how she presents her e-design package. Creating these packages been a labor of love for Sara. Bio: Sara Lynn Brennan is an award-winning Entrepreneur, CEO, and Principal Interior Designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors, the first and only full-service interior design firm in Waxhaw, North Carolina who specializes in Transitional Design. She and her design-build team take spaces from Bare Bones to Beautiful by utilizing her exclusive, approachable and stress-free design process, transforming and renovating homes from start to finish. Sara’s design work has been nationally published six times in the last year including publications such as Romantic Homes, Traditional Home, Window Fashion Vision, and Cottages and Bungalows, who recently offered her a role as a monthly columnist. She’s also been noticed as a rising star among colleagues in the design industry being invited as a guest on podcasts, as a panelist at High Point Market and as a host and speaker at local design events and shows. Sara’s confident, unique and fearless approach to business and design make her an inspiration to those who work with and around her. Sara is known for her recognizable “Romantic Transitional” design aesthetic, but her award-winning design team is not just about creating pretty spaces. It is Sara’s mission to educate and expose clients to the beauty and functionality of transitional design. She and her team pride themselves on creating practical, beautiful, and timeless homes that families can really LIVE in for years to come. Links: Website: Sara Lynn Brennan Design Packages and Free E-Book: Sara Brennan Blog Post: Luann Nigara Baby Designer IG: @saralynnbrennan FB: Sara Brennan Soft Design Lab HPMKT Experience Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Wendy Woloshchuk #316 Mr. Inkredible #417 Kimberly Kay #234 Kelsey Grose #167 Megan Molten #455 Darla Powell #203 and #330 Deb Barrett #53 Tobi Fairley (1st one) Lori Paranjape #34 Tori Alexander #445

Welcome to another episode of Window Treatment Friday, with LuAnn and her friend and co-host, Vita. Since starting the WTF series, they have been getting lots of emails from designers, asking questions related to their businesses. Finding the best business model for window treatment services was at the top of the list, so in today's episode, we will be outlining the framework for the 'Do It Yourself Model'. In this model, the designer takes all the risk and the responsibility- but gets all the money. In the following episodes, we will share different business models, so that you can choose the one that's the best fit for you. Today's show is an important one, so tune in now, to find out more! Vita is a class-act lady! She's the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., which is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments in the Philadelphia Metro area. Vita has been taking the lead in responding to all the emails and having the conversations with you, the listeners, about the things that really matter the most to you. After getting all your feedback to the first two episodes in this series, it made a lot of sense to address some of the more pressing topics that are on your minds. Listen in today, to find out what Vita and LuAnn have to say about finding the best business model for your window treatment services. Show Highlights: On September 23rd, the Lunch and Learn events will be kicking off once again for the season. LuAnn explains what the exciting first event, called Showroom Showdown, will be all about. Helping you to find the best business model to pursue. What the 'Do It Yourself' Model' looks like, and how it works. You will need to learn how to measure. LuAnn suggests finding information from the WCAA about certification courses in window treatments. Coming up with what the window treatment is, and learning to fill out the work and the production orders, with all the specifics. As a designer, you need to have a vision and an understanding of the practical, functional needs. Your lingo has to be very specific when communicating with the workroom. You will have to keep track of the work in progress, and you will have to follow it up. Different workrooms have different cultures. Selecting the appropriate fabrics for the treatment you've selected. Developing good relationships with the workroom. Next week we will be discussing the business model where you work with a window treatment specialist, or a project management company. Announcements: On September 23rd, the Window Works showroom, in Livingstone, New Jersey is re-igniting and kicking off the Lunch and Learn events for the season. The first Lunch and Learn event for the season is called Showroom Showdown. Reminder: LuAnn and Vita will be presenting Demystifying Window Treatments For Interior Designers, at The Design Trade Resources Showroom, in Devon, Pennsylvania, on September 24th at 12 pm. This event is free and it is sponsored by Stout Fabrics. RSVP at [email protected]. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works: windowworks-nj.com To RSVP for the Window Works Showroom Showdown To learn more about WTF on A Well-Designed Business®️: Luann Nigara To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to [email protected] To learn more about the Interior Design Society To learn more about Stout: Stout.com

Welcome to another episode of our Design Biz Live series with Corey Klassen and Judith Neary! Today, Corey and Judith will be discussing five fatal errors that people tend to make in their businesses. Judith and Corey run their own design firms and they have both had years of experience in the design industry, so they know what it takes to create a successful business, and they understand what you need to do to avoid the pitfalls. Listen in today, to get their expert advice. Corey is the owner of Corey Klassen Interior design, based in Vancouver. He provides professional interior design services for residential and commercial interior design projects while specializing in high-end kitchen and bath projects. Judith owns Roadside Attraction Design Studio, based in Vashon Island, Washington. She provides professional design services for kitchens, baths, and other fun living spaces. Tune in now, to find out how to avoid making these five fatal errors in your interior design business. Show Highlights: Judith talks about making the first fatal error- basing business models on demographics. Your profit margin comes from how you do your business. It's all about product, people, and place. The peril of making a value call, or a judgment about someone, without first engaging with them. Lead from selling in alignment with your business goals. Being clear with your clients about what you will do and what you will not do. Finding the right clients based on a psychographic rather than on a demographic. Sometimes it's okay to do things for the greater good even though you're not being paid for it. Being clear in your communication will be your biggest asset. The difference between a customer and a client. It's not about what you like. It's about what your client likes. A true design professional will recommend rather than offer their advice or opinion. You need to know your capacity and your capability. Internalizing your external values with a code of ethics for yourself, for your contractors, and your clients. Links: Goodies Link: Luann Nigara Corey's Website: Corey Klassen Judith's Website: Road Side Attraction Studio

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Fred Berns is back on the show with us, and if you're a regular listener, you will know that he's one of our most repeated guests. Fred is a really powerful copywriter and he is also one of the co-authors of LuAnn's most recent book, A Well-Designed Business, The Power Talk Friday Experts. The topic for today's episode is Get Ready To Go Steady, so today, Fred will be explaining how to turn single sales into long-term sales. He really has a passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table, so listen in, to find out what he has to share! Fred Berns is a coach and a copywriter, and he brings more than twenty-five years of experience to the table, helping designers from Dallas to Dubai create their online profiles, their websites, and social media copy for their blogs, their marketing forms, and whatever else they may require. Fred offers a wide selection of coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio-Briefing, and his Website Onceover. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Fred talks about his passion for helping designers to avoid leaving money on the table. It costs five times more to attract a new customer than it does to retain an existing one. It's your fault if your client does not know all that you can do. It's so much nicer to work with people you've worked with before. Learning to develop partnerships with your clients. Fred shares a great marketing strategy. Expanding your marketing network. Sending out a "Guess what" email to your clients. Planting the seeds of long-term relationships with your clients. Dealing with conflict in the best possible way. It's not about the quantity of your client relationships. It's about the quality of your relationships. Fred's Bio: Fred Berns is the only interior design industry business coach and speaker who creates personal bios and other promotional materials for design professionals worldwide. Fred has more than 25 years experience training design professionals from Dallas to Dubai and creating their online profiles, website, and social media copy, blogs, and marketing forms. In addition, he offers a wide range of business coaching services, ranging from his High-Performance Coaching Program to his Bio Briefing and Website Onceover. As one of the biggest names in the business of interior design, he speaks at design conferences and other events throughout the U.S. and around the world. He also develops sales and marketing programs for international franchise organizations and companies within the interior design industry, and trains manufacturers, retailers, and others on how to increase sales to design professionals. Fred focuses on his keynote speeches and seminars on how designers, kitchen and bath specialists, window fashion experts and other professionals can dramatically increase sales, and market themselves more effectively. He has appeared at the International Window Coverings Expo; Neocon events; the High Point Market; Surfaces; design symposiums; home and design expos; furniture, gift and accessory shows; and national conferences of such groups as ASID, NKBA, IDS, and IFDA. Fred’s blog is read by design professionals the world over, and he regularly writes guest blog posts and articles for online and print media. He also is a frequent guest on design industry podcasts. His Interior Design Business Library includes a vast collection of books, audio and video programs and other business-building resources that he has developed for the design industry. His learning tools cover topics ranging from setting and getting higher fees and overcoming price objections to branding and million-dollar marketing on a shoestring budget. Fred’s clients today benefit from the communication and copywriting skills that he acquired during his highly-successful earlier career as a broadcast and print journalist. In that career, he founded one of Washington, D.C.’s largest and longest-established independent news bureaus. Links: Fred's Website: Interior Design Business If you'd like help with your personal promotion profile, go to Bio Briefing A Well-Designed Business®️: The Power Talk Friday Experts Sales for Creatives Article Trade Program: Well Designed Article Previous episodes mentioned in the show: Fred's Previous Episodes on A Well-Designed Business ®: #22, #48, #96, #174, #226, #289, #337, #393 Lee Cockerell #222

Welcome! Today, we're delighted to introduce you to Dennis Scully, the host of the Business of Home Podcast where each week, he interviews interior design industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives, to explore the changes and the challenges faced by the design community. In today's episode, Dennis and LuAnn talk tech. They discuss the way that technology is changing how business is done, and the adaptions that we have to consider making in our businesses. We all need to grow, innovate, and figure out new ways to make money and be profitable, so listen in today, to find out what Dennis has to share about the shifts that are happening within our industry. The Business of Home Podcast is a production of Business of Home which, for the past ten years, has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals, including residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, makers and manufacturers, executives and entrepreneurs. With a career in marketing, advertising, and business development in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Dennis has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. Tune in now, to find out how to lean into the changes that are coming. Show Highlights: Technology is changing everything! The design industry is adjusting to what today's customer is looking for. Dennis shares one of his core beliefs. People are more excited about design right now than ever before. You need to think about what you're bringing to your clients that they cannot get online. Designers today have to work even harder at educating their would-be clients about their talents and value. The undeniable issue around technology is the impact that it's going to have on all our lives and all of our businesses. So we need to figure out how we are going to deal with it. The incredible new workspace that Kravet has created to support the way that designers are now doing their business. Learning to run with the way that technology is going. It's worth experimenting with new and improved ways of doing things. It's challenging today to know where and how to put your message forward. Material Bank is a great example of a company that has taken the initiative to change with the times. Designers have not yet made the complete shift into the world of e-commerce. Designers need to understand that although there are pros and cons to technology, it is here, and it's going to keep coming our way with more innovations, at an ever-increasing pace. You, as a designer, need to know who you are, and you need to be confident with your skills and keep on honing them. Learning to lean into the changes that are coming. Things are shifting so quickly that if you don't keep up with the change you will end up going backward. Bio: Dennis Scully is the host of the weekly BOH podcast, where he explores the changes and challenges facing the interior design community through interviews with industry thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives. He is also the vice president of sales and marketing at luxury textiles company Castel. With a marketing, advertising, and business development career in the home furnishings space that spans more than 20 years, Scully has helped some of the finest companies in the industry to manage their teams and grow their brands. After wrapping up his tenure as the President of the luxury custom upholstery company Avery Boardman, Dennis returned to Business of Home, where he had previously served as the V.P. of Business Development. This time it was to launch a new column for the site, Market Report, based on Scully’s financial insights, as well as a business-focused podcast, Business of Home. Dennis began his career in the homeworld running a small retail advertising agency that created branding and marketing campaigns for many of New York’s great furniture retailers of the day. As the grandson of the founders of Scully & Scully on Park Avenue, New York retail was a world he knew well. He later joined the luxury kitchen and bath company Waterworks, ultimately serving as the New York Director of Sales and Marketing. From there he landed a job at Condé Nast, joining the launch team of Domino Magazine as its Home Furnishing Director. Dennis worked with the luxury textile brand Twill as Sales and Marketing Director, and he later worked with the Chicago-based interior designer who founded Twill, Suzanne Lovell. He joined Castel in May of 2018 to help them launch their first-ever flagship showroom in New York City’s famed D&D Building. Business of Home: For 10 years, Business of Home has been the leading publication covering the home industry, delivering essential business news, analysis and insights to a dedicated readership of interior design professionals—residential, contract and hospitality designers, retailers, m

Welcome to today's episode! We have a very special show for you, sponsored by Savour Partnership, which is owned by principals Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson. Leslie and Sam both appeared previously in episode #209 when they first launched their company and they spoke to us about the importance of email marketing. Today, Leslie joins us. She is a visionary who has had a significant impact on our industry and she really knows how to help designers pivot and then come out of the change far stronger than ever before. Currently, Leslie and Sam have a new mission- to create awareness around the changes that are happening within the design industry and to help designers thrive in this new environment. Whether you are an interior designer, a retailer, or a brand, Leslie and Sam have the answers to successfully navigating the changes that are coming. Tune in today, to find out what Leslie has to share. Leslie's strengths are in strategic planning, online copyrighting, social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising. Sam's strengths lie in graphic design, video production, and e-commerce photography. Listen in today, to find out about this dynamic partnership, which is fully committed to helping you understand that you need to build and design wealth right into your interior design business. Show Highlights: Taking e-commerce matters into your own hands by designing wealth into your website. There are ways to continue making money selling products one-on-one to clients. Leslie invites you to join her Design Wealth Facebook group. Design Wealth Leslie explains how to design wealth into your website. Leslie talks about how you can thrive with the changes. Building your business from the foundation. Why you need to have digital products available on your website. Creating your own online magazine is a great way to make money. Leslie talks about her business partner, Sam, who is a master graphic designer. The products that Leslie and Sam provide for their clients. To see the fabulous mini-magazine that Leslie and Sam created for Window Works, go to Window Works. Leslie explains how her Email Opt-in Mini Magazine will help you make money. Making a little extra with affiliate marketing. About Leslie's special offer for her very comprehensive online course called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income. Info on Savour: Leslie Carothers and Sam Henderson, Savour Partnership's principals, came together to form their business collaboration based on their complementary strengths: Sam's in graphic design, video production and e-commerce photography and Leslie's in strategic planning, online copywriting, and social media campaign execution, content marketing, and advertising. They are convinced that beautiful design in online visual communications is a key competitive advantage and helps businesses build a valuable business asset with long term financial value. Savour Partnership produces magazine quality, custom-designed, downloadable e-publications, each of which can include ( but doesn't have to include) affiliate marketing links to help businesses generate revenue 24/7. Our publications help our clients: 1. Elevate the visual experience of their brand, online, to help them gain a competitive advantage. 2. Build their email lists. 3. Build a sellable business asset. As income is generated 24/7 via our beautifully presented affiliate product links, a recurring revenue stream is created. As this revenue stream increases over time, it leads to a financially valuable, sellable business asset. Our service packages include options for: Affiliate marketing set up and training. Uniquely branded 3-5 page magazines, (scroll to Package 2 and click to see our brochure) to use as free email opt-ins to help build your company's email list. Completely custom branded downloadable catalogs, e-books, online magazines, look books, portfolios, of any size. These can include video, custom animations, etc. ( see an example of a custom magazine Sam designed, here. ) Custom e-newsletters. Custom media kits. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Megan Molten #455 Brea Hammil Carla Aston #242 Leslie Price #413 Links: Website: Savour Partnership Instagram: Savour Partnership Facebook: Savour Partnership Groups: Design Wealth Price Style and Design Leslie's email - [email protected] Leslie's very comprehensive online course, called Design Wealth- How To Design And Market Your Own Online Courses For 24/7 Passive Income, is available to you for only $297 if you go to Design Wealth and use the code LUANN. (The normal price is $497)

Welcome! Today, Dane Austin, of Dane Austin Design, joins us on the show. Dane founded his award-winning, full-service interior design firm, which specializes in luxury residential interiors throughout New England and North America, in 2009. Dane has a signature design process, which he calls the Dane Austin Design. He created this highly-organized process because he truly understands the value in building profit centers around creating packages. This customer-driven plan delivers custom solutions for full-service, turnkey projects and Dane uses the packages feature from Mydoma Studio to explain, quantify, and smoothly sell his services to his clients. Listen in, to hear what Dane has to share on the show today. Dane is the artist, interior design his medium, and the client his muse. Today, we have a conversation with him about finding yourself, both as an individual and as a business person. He talks to us about how he found his Fred Berns 'only', about the significance of the ladybugs on his website, and about finding your voice within your career journey. Dane is a delightful, warm, and generous person, so tune in today, and enjoy this opportunity to get to know him! Show Highlights: It takes time to figure out who you really are. It's important to dress the part. Your attitude is the most crucial thing. A lot goes into making your way to the top in the design industry. The human connection matters the most in the end. Helping each other be better and grow. Dane discusses his approach to his work. Bold and daring use of color really works for Dane. Identifying a thread through all his projects. Marketing yourself in a way that will attract the people you'd really like to be working with. Investing in really good images is very important. Finding the right element to create the wow factor. Delivering beyond the level of the client's imagination. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Nicole Heymer - Curio Electro #125 and #317 Nate Berkus - #433 Links: Dane Austin Design Email: Dane Austin Design Facebook: Dane Austin Design Instagram: A Colorfull Life Twitter: Dane Austin Design Ask me anything” coaching Strategy Session

Welcome to the second episode of Window Treatment Friday! Starting this new series has rekindled a lot of excitement for LuAnn around window treatments! And she and Vita are both very excited to share with you that on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, they will be presenting a Continuing Education Unit, sponsored by Stout, on demystifying window treatments for interior designers. In today's episode, this dynamic duo will be discussing the pros and cons of using custom, versus ready-made window treatments. This show will set the scene for all the following episodes of WTF, so tune in now, to find out more! Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share with you. Show Highlights: Vita explains the main differences are between custom and ready-made window treatments. Custom is not necessarily the only way to go because different situations call for different things. When you would use ready-made, rather than custom window treatments. The way that Vita supports the designers she works with. When you would need to use custom window treatments. When the budget allows for it, custom will always be the better choice. Leading the conversation with your client to where you want it to go. Why most interior designers would prefer to do only custom window treatments. Some important things designers need to be aware of when they're faced with a situation where they have to use ready-made window treatments. Ready-made drapes often take a lot of work to make them look like the picture on the package. Some ways to improve ready-made drapery. Links: To learn more about working with Vita and Vitalia Inc: Vitalia Inc To learn more about working with Window Works: Window Works To receive a free subscription to Window Fashion Vision Magazine To attend the IWCE where both LuAnn and Vita will be presenting: IWCE To learn about the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America) WCAA To learn about Exciting Windows To attend our upcoming event in PA, De-Mystifying Window Treatments go to: [email protected] Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia_inc LuAnn's website: Luann Nigara LuAnn's email: [email protected] The information about the upcoming CEU on the 24th of September, at the Design Trade Resources in Devon, Pennsylvania, will be on Luann's website, under 'Events and Coaching'.

Welcome! Today we are really excited to have Megan Molten on the show with us. Megan reached out to LuAnn in an email a while ago, telling her that she learned everything she knows about the business of interior design from this show, and it's changed her life. She went on to explain that after twelve years of being in health-care sales and having listened to the podcast every day for the last year, she finally quit her day job to become an interior designer. Listen in today, to hear Megan's story. Before quitting her job, Megan managed to have an incredible 29 interior design clients on the side, over six months, while still working full-time, for fifty hours a week! Now, a year later, she has a full-time business manager, a full-time designer, she has leased warehouse space, she has a studio space, she has an e-commerce business, and she has 19 000 followers on Instagram! In her first year, Megan brought in $600 000 in revenue, and she also planned her wedding and got married last May! She has been featured on eighteen different sites, from Serena and Lily to Apartment Therapy and Bungalow. Megan has achieved all of this because she truly understands that to make her dreams a reality, she has to actually do the things that she learned from the different guests on this show. In today's episode, she talks to us about the things she learned and how she's applied them. Tune in now, to find out more! Show Highlights: Megan talks to us about the moment that she finally decided to quit her day job. It all began with social media, with Instagram in particular, for Megan. One of the first things that Megan did was to hire a photographer. Starting afresh, both professionally and personally. Having the support of her entrepreneurial parents really helped Megan a lot. Do what you do best, and outsource the rest. Making her first hire was one of the best decisions Megan has ever made. E-commerce makes so much sense but it really takes a lot of work. Using the services of a purchasing agent. Having conversations and making connections. The importance of finding the blind spots in your processes. Bio: Megan's love for all things interiors has been around for as long as she can remember and soon became a reality after she purchased her first home in Charleston, South Carolina and started the design process herself. She began sharing with the world all of her favorite finds and amazing transformations on social media and the world responded! It was this incredible response to Megan's designs that encouraged her to start helping friends, then friends of friends and eventually clients transform their spaces too. This exciting new "hobby" she devoted every hour to while not working her very full-time job in medical sales quickly turned into a business. She quit her 12-year career in corporate America to chase a dream-a dream that was her true passion in life-helping others achieve beautiful spaces they love. Her passion for light and airy design, go-getter attitude and attention to detail has quickly created a strong following and brand for #designsbymeganmolten and she can't wait to continue to watch her big dream grow! Links: Megan's email: [email protected] Website: Megan Molten Shop: Megan Molten Shop Instagram: Megan Molten Facebook: Megan Molten Pinterest: Megan Molten Houzz: Designs By Megan Molten Previous shows mentioned in this episode: Shea McGee #236 Cheryl Luckett - Dwell by Cheryl #291 and #397

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Jamie Lieberman is with us today. Jamie is an attorney, a podcaster, and an entrepreneur. She is also the owner and founder of Hashtag Legal, and she's dedicated to making the legal field accessible to creative professionals just like you. Jamie is down-to-earth, easy to get along with, and she is passionate about sharing the message that legal doesn't have to be scary. Listen in today, to find out how and why she does this. Jamie draws on her experience working with influencer marketing professionals, creatives, business owners, and interior designers, to help and protect them as they grow their businesses. She leads an all-female virtual team with a focus on providing clients with advice on all kinds of subjects, like intellectual property, contracts, privacy, FTC, and general business law, as well as negotiation strategies. Jamie is the co-host of the Fear Less Business Podcast and she's an outstanding speaker with tons of energy! There are so many insights to be gained from today's conversation. Tune in now, to find out how to gracefully dismantle a business partnership, keep your eyes wide open, and make sure that your contracts and agreements are all clear. Show Highlights: Daniele Liss (#171) used to be Jamie's partner in Hashtag Legal. Jamie really gets the intricacies of running a creative business. Jamie makes it very easy for people to access her talents. Managing the challenging nuances of running an interior design business. Everything changes when money comes into play. Negotiating towards a common goal, which is building a successful business. Partnership agreements can be changed. Covering vendor liability could put designers at risk. A contract is actually a gift, it's not a bad thing. It's perfectly acceptable to negotiate a contract before signing it. You have to learn from the things that come up. It's all about clear communication. Jamie is learning from her clients all the time. She likes it when her clients challenge her. Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Daniele Liss #171 Amanda Berlin #420 Jenny Maddon #332 Peter Lang- The Designer CPA #349 Tori Alexander #445 Links: Jamie's website: Hashtag Legal Jamie's email: [email protected] Jamie on Instagram: Hashtag-legal Jamie on Facebook Jamie on Linked-In

Welcome to the show! Today, Carolyn Flannery, the principal of Carolyn Rebuffel Designs joins us on the show. Apart from designing interiors, Carolyn also heads up Workroom C, a textile company which offers pillows, drapery, bespoke soft goods, and fabric by the yard. Carolyn built her design business in a rather unusual way and she has a really organized approach to running it. In today's episode, she shares with us how she intentionally focuses on families with children, who understand the value of having family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings which are also beautiful. Listen in today, to hear about Carolyn, her business, and how she markets specifically to her ideal clients, using one strategy that has been keeping her pipeline full for more than 10 years. With over a decade of hospitality experience under her belt, Principal Designer Carolyn Rebuffel Flannery brings a thoughtful approach to each project she completes. At her namesake design firm, established in 2006, Carolyn believes that your home should be a retreat that provides you with a sense of ease and calm. After building a career as an antique store owner, buyer, and merchandiser, Carolyn transitioned to interior design, crafting practical yet beautiful interiors that reflect her clients' unique lifestyles. As a mother of four, Carolyn understands the value of creating family-friendly spaces with durable, multi-functional furnishings. Her work highlights unconventional lighting, savvy design solutions, and a healthy mix of high and low pieces. In addition to designing artful interiors, Carolyn helms WorkRoom C, a textile company that offers fabric by the yard, pillows, drapery, and bespoke soft goods. She holds a BA in Art History from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a MPS in Hotel Administration from Cornell University. Tune in now to find out more. Show Highlights: How Carolyn started with her unusual business strategy. Carolyn explains her free, and her paid consultation processes. Carolyn has grown her business so that she's in a position to direct it in any way that she chooses. It's not always the swankiest private schools that make the best clients for Carolyn. Some clients tend to experience some fear when using the services of an interior designer for the first time. Being really clear when explaining your processes and pricing to new clients. Staying on track with the amount of time that's been allocated for a consultation. You don't have to have children to be able to tap into the schools' PTA donation market. It may take some time to tap into Carolyn's kind of market. Carolyn talks about how she started with the fabrics that she's designing. The complicated reality of providing exactly what clients want. What Carolyn learned from Amy Flurry about PR. You have to have an intention behind everything that you do in your business. Other episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Andrew Joseph # 39 Krista Coupar #24 #45 #60 #81 #150 Links: Carolyn Rebuffel Designs: Workroom C WorkRoom C

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today's show is a special episode, sponsored by American OEM, one of our nation's leading hardwood flooring manufacturers. We're really fortunate to have Allie Finkell, the executive vice president of American OEM, with us on the show. This past spring, Allie and American OEM asked Revel Woods to invite several designers for a tour of their factory in Nashville. LuAnn and Vin were lucky enough to be included. This remarkable Tennessee-based factory is called the Prison Industry Enterprise because it operates within a penitentiary. In today's episode, Allie talks about their unique prison-based business model, she gives us a breakdown of the difference between hardwood floors made in the US and those made in China, and she discusses the relationship that American OEM has with Revel Woods, and why and how that had brought Allie and LuAnn together. Listen in today, to find out what Allie has to share about this unusual enterprise. Allie is known as royalty in the wood flooring industry because she is the great-granddaughter of L. W. Anderson, who was the founder of Anderson Hardwood Floors, and she has spent her life immersed in the hardwood flooring industry. Following early career sales and marketing experience in New York City, Allie eventually joined the family business, taking on a sales position covering the Northeastern US. During that time, Anderson was acquired by Shaw Industries, and Allie helped lead the introduction of hardwood, laminate, ceramic and vinyl into Shaw’s commercial product offering. In 2013, Allie took on the role of Director of Marketing for Mohawk Industries, building another commercial hard surface program from the ground up. Allie followed her family roots back to hardwood in 2014 when she joined American OEM as executive vice president, helping grow the Anderson-Finkell legacy of beautiful, enduring American-made flooring for the next generation. A graduate of Furman University, Allie holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics. Tune in now, for more! Show Highlights: Allie talks about the remarkable prison industry enterprise. How hardwood floors are made within a prison environment. The benefits of this unique business model to all concerned. How the landscape of the hardwood flooring industry has changed over the last ten to fifteen years. The way that the Chinese have begun to erode the hardwood flooring industry. The difference between the quality of the Chinese and the American product. Allie discusses the quality of the product that her company produces. The difference between hardwood and LVT flooring. Some things that designers could ask builders about hardwood flooring. Character does not have to mean rustic. Designers can purchase American OEM flooring via Revel Woods. Allie explains what makes Revel Woods so special. Hearth Wood is Allie's family flagship brand. It's her family's way to leverage their history and continue their legacy in the industry. Previous shows mentioned in this episode: John Dupra of Revel Woods #329 Links: Revel Woods American OEM Hearth Wood Floors Instagram - Revel Woods

Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today, we have Elissa Grayer joining us on the show. Elissa is here today, just like so many of our guests over the years, to share her lessons in business. Today's show is a little different, however. Because, often, our colleagues have shared with us the lessons they've learned in hindsight or the past difficulties that they experienced in their careers, that they weren't sure they would ever manage to overcome. Yet today, Elissa, who is going through an unusual season in her business, bravely shares something with us that she is knee-deep in, right now. In today's episode, she talks to LuAnn about what she's been going through over the last six months, some of the lessons she's learned, and the action steps she is taking to remedy the situation. Listen in, to hear her story. After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education, Elissa also studied at both the New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Elissa's business has changed significantly because, since January, her turnover has taken a drastic downturn. Elissa describes what she's been going through over the last six months. Elissa recommends outsourcing your business management to Studio Webware. The value of working with an excellent business coach and having the support of like-minded business owners. It's really important to keep checking your numbers consistently. And to act timeously, if necessary. It's all about setting goals and being accountable. Elissa has never worked for anyone else, so she hasn't had the opportunity to learn business fundamentals from a seasoned business owner. Today, you have to actively market your business. The great incentive gifts that Elissa has been giving to realtors. Waiting for the right time to approach realtors to introduce your services to them. Building the skill of rainmaking. Elissa has been building time-blocking into her schedule. If you ever have downtime in your business, you can make good use of it to get started with some new processes. Learning to trust and use your intuition. Looking for the lessons in the hard times. Bio: After graduating from Amherst College with a B.A. in Psychology, Elissa spent 10 years in the fields of education and business, earning three masters degrees along the way. It took the joining of two individual apartments into one family-friendly space to convince her to turn her passion for interior design into a business. She was then asked to oversee another major renovation project on the Upper West Side, and thus her career began. To further her education she has also studied at the prestigious New York School of Interior Design and Parsons School of Interior Design. Launched in 2001, Elissa Grayer created her namesake design firm and quickly become the go-to talent for young families transitioning from New York City to the idyllic suburbs of Westchester County. Since then, the firm has also become known for its mastery in the planning, design, and project management of grand estates, luxury apartments, and vacation retreats across New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Florida. She strives to create beautiful and functional spaces that reflect each client’s personality in an elegant and comfortable way; Classic luxury design for modern living. Elissa subscribes to the belief that creating a home should be a partnership between the designer and homeowner. Educating her clients and exposing them to the exclusive access that only an expert can bring, Elissa Grayer Interior Design creates smart solutions that fit within the homeowners’ budget and lifestyle. Links: Website: Elissa Grayer Design Instagram: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Facebook: Elissa Grayer Interior Design Pinterest: Elissa Grayer Exciting Windows

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Have you ever wished that you could outsource your procurement process to a proven professional? If so, you will gain a lot from today's show because we have Bethany Mabee with us, and Bethany is your lady if you ever want to outsource the procurement process of any interior design project! She makes it possible for you to work with her whether you're a small interior design firm looking for some help with the procurement process of a one-off project, or you're a larger firm with several projects going on at the same time, consistently. In today's episode, Bethany explains the way that she assists designers, and she discusses the kind of accountability that she has built into her process. Listen in today, to find out how Bethany could mean real magic for you and your design business. Before opening her firm, Interior Procurement Group, Bethany worked behind the scenes in the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years. Her career began in 2001, at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through to production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. Since opening her Procurement Group, Bethany has worked with dozens of designers, on a project-by-project basis, acting as an agent on their behalf. Her goal is to eliminate all non-design-related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are free to focus on the other areas of the project that demand their attention. Tune in now, to find out more. Show Highlights: Bethany loves swimming in details and finding organization in chaos. Bethany works with different size firms and projects. Bethany works with designers only during the procurement phase of their projects. It's great for designers not to have to train someone up in the area of procurement. The vast range of procurement services that Bethany supplies. The kind of admin that Bethany covers. Why Peter Lang, the Designer CPA, specializes in the design industry. About Kimberly Merlitty's specialty. Bethany discusses the monthly check-in that she does with designers. Bethany supports interior designers at an expert level. Sending regular status reports to her clients. Confidentiality is really important to Bethany. Bethany's files are available to the designers at all times. Keeping the designers up to date with the status of their purchases. Working on the finer details. Bethany offers her support, on-site, on installation day. Bethany really respects designers. She sees them, she hears them, and she understands their value. Bio: Bethany has been working behind-the-scenes within the Interior Design industry for nearly 20 years. In 2001, her career began at Eastern Accents, a Chicago-based textile manufacturer where she oversaw custom trade orders by communicating their specifications through production. This was a perfect learning experience and stepping stone for transitioning to Gary Lee Partners, where she worked as the Architecture Firm’s Procurement Director from 2005 - 2009. In 2009 after having her first child, Bethany wanted a chance to continue doing the work she loves, while also being more available to her son. Noticing that many designers in the industry were juggling the purchasing process on their own and that most dreaded this time-consuming, archaic process. Bethany decided to branch out on her own as a consultant and provide residential furniture procurement solutions to design clients. Bethany has been able to work with a variety of clients across the country, from small boutique firms to independent designers. Bethany works with designers on a project-by-project basis and acts as an agent on their behalf. Her goal is to eliminate all non-design related items for the designer during the furniture purchasing process so that they are freed up to focus on other areas of the project that demand their attention. Bethany remotely manages all aspects of the procurement process including purchasing, billing, and warehousing. Once a designer’s specifications are finalized, Bethany takes over by generating client proposals, processing purchase orders, and communicating custom specifications and sample approvals to manufacturers/vendors as needed. Throughout the purchasing process, Bethany tracks all costs and markups for designer profitability and maintains communication and records with the designer’s accountant. Bethany also manages the installation process for her clients by facilitating vendor correspondence throughout production, communicating material timeframes to workrooms, maintaining project production status sheets, submitting regular updates to the design team, coordinating local and long-distance shipments with carriers, recording warehouse receiving reports, tracking freight and warehousing costs

Welcome another episode of Power Talk Friday and Design Biz Live, with Judith Neary and Corey Klassen. It's been several months since the last episode of the Design Biz Live series and today's show is really going to be fun, especially if you were one of the 200 people attending LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation, last March, where Corey and Judith were both guest designer panelists. Tune in to today's episode of Design Biz Live, to find out why everyone really needs a Vin man! Judith and Corey are usually the ones to come up with the topics for the Design Biz Live episodes, and their topics are mostly about the things they're facing in their businesses or the things that their colleagues are struggling with, in theirs. For today's episode, however, they have decided to talk about the things that they learned from LuAnn Live. Corey and Judith both have tons of experience in the design industry, so listen in today, to hear what they learned. Show Highlights: Corey really enjoyed connecting with other like-minded individuals and sharing stories and experiences with them. Judith, as a tenured professional in the industry, really loved the amount of information that was available at LuAnn Nigara Live, It's About The Conversation. Everyone needs a Vin man! Corey talks about a moment of clarity that he experienced. LuAnn explains where the magic happens. Judith lists five of her take-aways. Corey uses spreadsheets to track everything, so he really loved Michele William's Profit First method. What Judith loved so much about Fred Berns. Your existing client base is the fastest, shortest way to putting money in your pocket. The incredible value of referrals. The power of adversity. Judith gives a shout-out to MyDoma Studios. The benefits of using MyDoma Studio's packages. Corey explains what horizontal revenue is. LuAnn shares what she learned at LuAnn Nigara Live. LuAnn Live 2 will be coming out in 2020. To get onto the email list, so that you can know what's happening and when text the word 'designbiz' to 444999.

Welcome to the first episode of Window Treatment Friday! For some time now, designers have been reaching out to LuAnn and asking her to share some of her window treatment expertise, because the window treatment business is a pretty complicated area of business for many designers. So about once a month, LuAnn and Vita Vygovska will be producing an episode of Window Treatment Friday, where they will explain how designers can increase their bottom line by incorporating custom window treatments into their projects. In each episode, they will break down and unravel the intricacies of an aspect of the window treatment business, as it relates to interior designers. They will be giving you content-driven education which is unbiased, truthful, and open, to educate baby designers and inspire the more seasoned and experienced designers to have more confidence, talk to their clients with more authority, and, ultimately, make more profit. Tune in now, to find out more. Vitalia (Vita for short) Vygovska is the award-winning window treatment specialist. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, is an all-encompassing fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management service exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Listen in today, to hear what LuAnn and Vita have to share about the value of incorporating custom window treatments into your design projects. Show Highlights: There are some valuable resources out there for window treatments. There's the WCAA (Window Coverings Association of America), Exciting Windows, ASID, the IWCE Expo, and Window Fashion Vision Magazine. The goal of Window Treatment Friday is to provide designers with just enough of the right kind of information to help them feel more confident in the world of window treatments. LuAnn explains which designers this show is talking to. Window treatments make up a large portion of interior design projects. Mistakes are part of learning, but they are costly when it comes to window treatments. LuAnn and Vita are here to share their lessons learned, and the mistakes they have made. There are pros and cons to adding window treatments to your ladder of services, as an interior designer. Window treatments make a huge difference to any interior design project. They are like jewelry for the room. There's profit to be made from including window treatments in a design project. Your number one way to make a profit is to sell more things to the same people. Some of the more nuanced points about the value of offering your clients window treatments. In the episodes coming up, LuAnn and Vita will be talking about everything, from custom versus ready-made, to specifying the differences between ready-made rods and custom-made rods, and why and when it matters. Please share with us any questions that you may have about window treatments or the challenges that you face with window treatments, in the comments on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Vita has already come up with 25 different window treatment topics to cover in this show. Links: Vita’s Website: Vitalia Inc Facebook: Vitalia Inc Instagram: Vitalia Inc Exciting Windows WCAA ASID IWCE The Window Fashion Vision Magazine Mentioned in the show: Sew Much More Podcast

Welcome! Today, Alex Gourlay joins us on the show. Eighteen months ago, Alex took LuAnn and Nancy Ganzekaupher's Money Mindset and Sales Course. Then recently, she contacted LuAnn to say that she wanted to share what she's learned since taking the course, and the things she's done since then to build her business, with all of you, her designer colleagues out there. For Alex, this has all been around mindset and about breaking through some of the patterns that she noticed in herself. Listen in today, to hear what Alex has to share. Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: Alex always knew that she had potential, but she also knew that there was something holding her back. Alex explains what she discovered about mindset issues and her business. Some examples of the mindset issues that Alex has managed to overcome. Two sentences that are really powerful informing how you think. Being confident without acting like a jerk. Growth mindset and fixed mindset. The fear of failure often prevents people from attempting something new. The key that has unlocked so many things for Alex. It feels uncomfortable to look in the mirror, go deep, and get to the next level. It helps to have a really supportive partner in life. The people that you surround yourself with will inevitably influence you. And some of them will try to hold you back because they're scared. The positive impact that Alex's new awareness has had on her business. You have to know what you want in order to create it. Once you know what you want, your brain looks for ways to make it happen. So many people really underestimate the power of their thoughts. Getting comfortable with your own beliefs. It's actually easier than you think to get published in magazines, as long as you do it the right way. It's all about standing in your space, staying in your lane, and being who you are. Giving yourself permission to be your best self. Bio: Alex Gourlay is the owner of Vellum Interiors, a high-end residential interior design studio in Sydney. Founded in 2016, Vellum Interiors has quickly gained a reputation for creating beautiful, feel-good homes. Alex’s work has been featured in multiple publications, and she was recognized as a Finalist in the 2019 Dulux Colour Awards. Tune in now for more! Alex’s design ethos focuses on the character of the houses and clients she works with, with an emphasis on simplicity and laid-back sophistication. She specializes in creating beautiful homes by the harbor or ocean, that her clients can love for many years. Alex’s previous experience in events and client services in global advertising firms has shaped how design projects are run at Vellum, and she is passionate about delivering a highly-organized and smooth experience for her clients. She loves to ‘surprise and delight’ her clients to keep things interesting too! A key value of Alex’s business is creating incredible relationships with clients, her suppliers, and trades, and she has garnered a reputation for being a force to be reckoned with. Alex works with people who are down-to-earth, high-net-worth Sydney-siders who have a desire to create a long-term home or holiday home. Vellum Interiors has been published in Australia House & Garden, InsideOut, Home Beautiful, and has been featured online in The Local Project, Homes to Love and Interiors Addict. Mentioned on the show: Steve Berson: The leader of Exciting Windows Book: Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck Previous episodes mentioned in this show: Amy Flurry #108 and #323 Ren Miller (Design New Jersey) #12 Ashley Hotham-Cox #321 Shea McGee #236 and #270 Amber Lewis #169 and #184 Power Talk Friday

Welcome to Power Talk Friday! Today, Jesse Lazarus, the Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc. joins us on the show. Jesse is a deep thinker, with a BA in philosophy, and in his role, at Kravet he plays an integral part in the discussion around the technology and innovations that the company chooses to partner with and embrace. Jesse spearheads Kravet's strategic plans and he implements their new digital initiatives, which include e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and groundbreaking virtual design tools. Listen in today, to find out what Jesse has to share about the ongoing evolution of Kravet. Kravet is a smart company and they are guided by their mission to support you, the interior designer, in your efforts to run a really profitable business. Kravet has been a show sponsor since the beginning and, in today's episode, Jesse talks to LuAnn about how this happened. He discusses the way that technology has advanced during his time working in the interior design industry, and how the industry is changing, as a result. He also talks to us about Kravet's new showroom which opening up at the New York Design Center, the way that Kravet is evolving, and where they are heading, in terms of innovation and technology. Tune in now for more! Show Highlights: How LuAnn's collaboration with Kravet began. For Jesse, Kravet is a really great and innovative place to work. The criteria that Jesse uses to decide whether or not to partner with tech companies. One of Kravet's core mission values is to always be in support of interior designers. Although many of the new tech companies are not yet geared for the interior design industry, designers are now involved in helping those companies evolve to meet the needs of the industry. Kravet has been partnering with MyDoma Studio since the spring of 2019. Jesse discusses the reason for this partnership. Jesse discusses his perception of the two flavors of the marketplace. Being transparent and as accessible as possible is another one of Kravet's core mission values. There's so much research and product discovery happening online, currently. This has started feeding through into the design industry. The way that Jesse sees the evolution of interior design showrooms, going forward. The way that Jesse has built the digital experience into the concept for Kravet's new pilot showroom, as a subtle, supportive tool for designers. Kravet's pilot showroom is meant to be a relaxed workspace for collaboration, where designers can feel comfortable enough to come in and use their sample library as if it was their own. Kravet's pilot showroom is a way to honor their relationships with interior designers. Some new technological innovations that are destined to become a part of the design industry. Recently, designers have been collaborating to form buying groups. Jesse sees this as a natural evolutionary step. The evolution of technology has made it possible for designers to now work in any way that fits their individual business. Bio: Jesse Lazarus is Chief Process and Innovation Officer for Kravet Inc., a high-end home furnishings supplier to the interior design trade. In this role, Jesse plays an integral part in spearheading strategic plans and implementing new digital initiatives, including e-commerce projects, in-store experience concepts, and innovative virtual design tools. He received his BA in Philosophy from the State University of Stony Brook and resides in West Sayville, NY with his wife and two daughters. Links: Website: Kravet Instagram: Kravet Facebook: Kravet Pinterest: Kravet Twitter: Kravet Mydoma Code for 10% of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim: AWDB10

Welcome to the show! We have Tori Alexander with us today. Tori is a Nashville native and she's a Harpeth Hall alumna with a B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from the University of Georgia. After graduating, Tori set herself apart as a designer with her uniquely broad understanding of architecture, while honing her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville. In 2012, Tori launched her own company, Alexander Interiors, in Sacramento California, when her husband's career took their family there. Then they returned to Nashville in 2016 and Tori started her business all over again. In today's episode, she talks to us about the systems she uses to keep her projects extremely well organized. And she mentions how moving and starting over twice, and experiencing a different culture and aesthetic, really broadened her design skills and helped her become a better businesswoman. Listen in today, to find out more! Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Tori explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Tori’s credentials are truly impressive. Alexander Interiors has been featured by Southern Living, Today, Style Blueprint and more. Tune in today, to hear what Tori has to share about how to run a design-build project. Show Highlights: Tori explains where to start with a design-build project. Implementing the production list was a turning point in Tori's business. It has led to more opportunities, such as management and construction management of larger projects. Running a business in California was a constant uphill battle for Tori and this really helped her to develop an edge. Tori talks about the production list and what it entails. The management tool that has really improved the profitability of Tori's business. Tori has four categories of projects: Renovation, full design, e-design, and consulting. Projects have to make sense for Tori, first financially and then creatively. If they don't fit any of these categories, she turns them down. Tori explains the kind of project that is not a good fit for her. The way that Tori packages her consultation times. Laying the seeds in the right places. A production list documents every single task that needs to be done, no matter how large or small. How trackable goals tie into the production list. Implementing separate cross-checks for completion and accuracy. Coming up with systems to prevent unforeseen installation problems from arising. Tori shares some of the checklists that she uses. Using checklists helps to bring calmness to a potentially chaotic industry. Rewarding the team at the end of a project for a job well done. Tori Alexander- Bio Spaces you can live in. That’s Tori Alexander’s design philosophy – a vision that is top of mind as she dreams up new creations for her clients. “I design every space with the assumption that adults will spill red wine and children will spill their juice,” Alexander explains. “That being said, it can still be beautiful! It is about knowing when and where to use each material.” When it comes to understanding those critical details, Alexander’s credentials are impressive. The Nashville native and Harpeth Hall alumna earned her B.S. in Furnishings and Interiors from The University of Georgia’s esteemed program in 2008. Upon graduating, she continued to hone her skills at a boutique architecture firm in Nashville, setting herself apart as a designer with a uniquely extensive understanding of architecture. In 2012, her husband’s career took Alexander to Sacramento, Ca., where she launched her own design company, Alexander Interiors. “I think being in a new and unfamiliar city encouraged me to finally take the leap and begin working for myself,” Alexander shares. Since the launch, clients have eagerly sought out Alexander’s impeccable expertise for their own homes. Describing her style as fresh and classic all at once, Alexander creates timeless interiors with layers of color, texture, and pattern. “I love a good pattern,” Alexander says. “That’s what I feel truly sets me apart — my ability to pair pattern on pattern within the same space.” In 2016, Alexander brought her thriving business back home to Nashville – a trending city with an ever-growing design scene. But with years of experience in California and clients across the country, Alexander offers a unique perspective for clients. “I’ve been able to draw inspiration from the quirks and trends in various regions and cities,” Alexander explains. Or sometimes, the inspiration is close to home – like an antique bracelet from her grandmother serving as the muse for a hand-painted ceiling in a charming nursery. Alexander’s creativity and heart help